B2 Advanced Grammar 16 min read Medium

Formal Only: Merely (-ㄹ/을 따름이다)

Use -ㄹ/을 따름이다 to express 'I merely did X' in formal or humble situations to minimize your action.
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Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

Use -ㄹ/을 따름이다 to express that something is 'merely' or 'only' the case, often used to show modesty or resignation.

  • Attach -ㄹ 따름이다 to verb stems ending in a vowel (e.g., 하다 -> 할 따름이다).
  • Attach -을 따름이다 to verb stems ending in a consonant (e.g., 먹다 -> 먹을 따름이다).
  • It is primarily used in formal or written contexts to emphasize limitation.
Verb-Stem + (ㄹ/을) + 따름이다

Overview

As you navigate the complexities of B2-level Korean, you'll encounter nuanced expressions that distinguish fluent communication from mere comprehension. One such pattern is -ㄹ/을 따름이다 (-(eu)l ttareumida). This grammatical construction signifies "merely," "only," or "nothing more than" an action.

However, its usage is highly specific, reserved for formal contexts where the speaker wishes to convey humility, resignation, or the objective statement of a fact without elaboration or personal bias. Think of it as a rhetorical tool to underscore the singular, constrained nature of an action.

While patterns like -만 (-man) or -뿐이다 (-ppunida) also express "only," -ㄹ/을 따름이다 carries a distinct weight of formality and a subtle undertone of being limited to a single course of action or state. It is not a casual conversational element; rather, it elevates the statement, making it sound more deliberate, solemn, or even self-effacing. You'll typically encounter it in formal writing, official statements, speeches, or literary contexts where precise, reserved language is paramount.

Mastering this pattern demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of Korean socio-linguistics and registers.

How This Grammar Works

At its core, -ㄹ/을 따름이다 is built upon the dependent noun 따름 (ttareum), which itself means "what one follows," "that on which one depends," or, in this context, "nothing more than." The structure grammatically functions by taking a verb stem, attaching the prospective adnominal ending -(으)ㄹ (-(eu)l), and then combining it with the dependent noun 따름 and the copula 이다 (ida). Literally, this translates to "it is the mere act of [verb]ing."
The adnominal ending -(으)ㄹ serves to nominalize the verb, turning it into a phrase that describes a future action or a potential state. When 따름 is appended, it restricts this nominalized verbal phrase, asserting that the verb's action is the sole or only thing involved. This creates several key semantic implications:
  • Humility and Modesty: The speaker often uses -ㄹ/을 따름이다 to downplay their own actions or contributions, especially after receiving praise. It suggests, "I merely did what was expected of me," or "I did nothing extraordinary." For instance, if someone praises your hard work, you might humbly respond, 그저 제 할 일을 했을 따름입니다. (Geujeo je hal ireul haesseul ttareumieopnida.) – "I merely did what I had to do."
  • Resignation or Lack of Alternatives: This pattern can convey a sense of powerlessness or acceptance in a situation where one feels they have no other choice but to perform a particular action or wait for an outcome. It highlights the constraint of circumstances. Consider 저희는 그저 결과를 기다릴 따름입니다. (Jeohui-neun geujeo gyeolgwareul gidaril ttareumieopnida.) – "We can only wait for the results."
  • Objective Fact Statement: In formal reports or legal contexts, -ㄹ/을 따름이다 is used to present information as a straightforward, unembellished fact. It strips away personal emotion or interpretation, emphasizing the pure factual nature of the statement. An example in a news report might be: 이는 단순한 통계 자료를 제시할 따름이다. (I-neun dansunhan tonggye jaryoreul jesihal ttareumida.) – "This merely presents simple statistical data."
  • Formal Declaration/Solemnity: The formality inherent in this construction lends a serious or solemn tone to the statement. It is often employed when making official declarations or expressing deep, reserved sentiments. For example, a formal apology might end with 깊이 사과드릴 따름입니다. (Gipi sagwadeuril ttareumieopnida.) – "We merely offer our deepest apologies."
In essence, -ㄹ/을 따름이다 is not just about saying "only"; it's about formally declaring a singular truth, often with an underlying feeling of restriction, obligation, or reserved humility. It is a powerful marker of formality and a specific rhetorical stance.

Formation Pattern

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Forming sentences with -ㄹ/을 따름이다 follows a straightforward pattern based on the verb stem. The key is to correctly apply the prospective adnominal ending -(으)ㄹ to the verb stem before adding 따름이다. Remember that the final 다 (da) is always removed from the dictionary form of the verb to obtain the stem.
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Here’s a breakdown of the conjugation rules:
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| Verb Stem Ending | Rule | Example Verb (Dictionary Form) | Stem | Adnominal Ending | Combined Form | English Translation |
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| :----------------------- | :----------------------------------------- | :----------------------------- | :------- | :--------------- | :------------------- | :------------------------------ |
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| Vowel | Add -ㄹ 따름이다 | 가다 (gada, to go) | 가- | –ㄹ | 갈 따름이다 | It's merely going. |
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| | | 하다 (hada, to do) | 하- | –ㄹ | 할 따름이다 | It's merely doing. |
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| | | 보내다 (bonaeda, to send) | 보내- | –ㄹ | 보낼 따름이다 | It's merely sending. |
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| Consonant (with 받침) | Add -을 따름이다 | 먹다 (meokda, to eat) | 먹- | –을 | 먹을 따름이다 | It's merely eating. |
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| | | 읽다 (ikda, to read) | 읽- | –을 | 읽을 따름이다 | It's merely reading. |
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| | | 찾다 (chatda, to find) | 찾- | –을 | 찾을 따름이다 | It's merely finding. |
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| Consonant (ㄹ irregulars) | ㄹ remains, add 따름이다 (effectively –ㄹ 따름이다)| 만들다 (mandeulda, to make) | 만들- | –ㄹ | 만들 따름이다 | It's merely making. |
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| | | 살다 (salda, to live) | 살- | –ㄹ | 살 따름이다 | It's merely living. |
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| | | 팔다 (palda, to sell) | 팔- | –ㄹ | 팔 따름이다 | It's merely selling. |
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Irregular Verbs:
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ㄷ (d) irregulars: These verbs change ㄷ to ㄹ before vowel endings. However, since -(으)ㄹ starts with a vowel (으), they behave like regular consonant-ending verbs. For example, 듣다 (deutda, to listen) becomes 들을 따름이다 (deureul ttareumida). 묻다 (mutda, to ask) becomes 물을 따름이다 (mureul ttareumida).
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ㅂ (b) irregulars: These verbs change ㅂ to 우 (or 오) before vowel endings. Similar to ㄷ irregulars, they also behave like regular consonant-ending verbs with -(으)ㄹ. For example, 돕다 (dopda, to help) becomes 도울 따름이다 (doult tareumida). 춥다 (chupda, to be cold - adjective, but follows verb conjugation for adnominal) becomes 추울 따름이다 (chuul ttareumida).
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Tense Marking:
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One crucial aspect to remember is that the tense marker (-았/었- for past tense) attaches to the main verb stem before the -(으)ㄹ adnominal ending.
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Present Tense: The basic form already implies present or general truth. 바랄 따름이다. (Baral ttareumida.) – "I merely hope."
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Past Tense: For actions completed in the past, use the past tense marker -았/었- on the verb stem, then attach -을 따름이다 (since the stem will now end in a consonant). For example, 보다 (boda, to see) becomes 봤을 따름이다 (bwasseul ttareumida) – "I merely saw." 만들다 (mandeulda, to make) becomes 만들었을 따름이다 (mandeureosseul ttareumida) – "I merely made."
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저는 최선을 다했을 따름입니다. (Jeoneun choeseoneul dahasseul ttareumieopnida.) – "I merely did my best." (Past action, humble confession)
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그는 상황을 설명했을 따름이었다. (Geuneun sanghwangeul seolmyeonghaesseul ttareumieotda.) – "He merely explained the situation." (Past action, objective statement)
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This meticulous attention to tense ensures your expressions are grammatically precise and convey the intended meaning in formal discourse.

When To Use It

-ㄹ/을 따름이다 is not a versatile everyday expression but rather a specialized tool for specific formal, rhetorical, or emotional situations. Its deliberate use signals a particular tone and intent to your listener or reader. Understanding these contexts is key to deploying it effectively.
  1. 1Formal Written Communication and Official Statements:
This is perhaps the most common domain for -ㄹ/을 따름이다. In reports, academic papers, legal documents, official press releases, or business correspondence, it lends an objective, detached, and authoritative tone. It allows entities (companies, governments, research teams) to state facts or actions without emotional coloring or perceived bias.
  • 저희 연구팀은 오직 데이터를 분석했을 따름입니다. (Jeohui yeonguteam-eun ojik deiteoreul bunseokhaesseul ttareumieopnida.)
"Our research team merely analyzed the data." (Implies no further interpretation or action, purely factual.)
  • 본 정책은 기존 법률을 보완할 따름입니다. (Bon jeongchaeg-eun gijon beomnyureul bowanhal ttareumieopnida.)
"This policy merely supplements existing laws." (Formal, legislative context, defining the scope.)
  1. 1Expressing Humility or Modesty:
When you want to downplay your achievements, efforts, or contributions, especially after receiving praise or recognition, -ㄹ/을 따름이다 is an excellent choice. It suggests you simply fulfilled your duty or did nothing exceptional, conveying a respectful and humble demeanor. This is particularly valued in Korean culture.
  • 과찬이십니다. 저는 그저 제 맡은 바를 다했을 따름입니다. (Gwachan-isimnida. Jeoneun geujeo je mateun bareul dahasseul ttareumieopnida.)
"You flatter me. I merely did my duty." (A polite, humble response to praise.)
  • 부족한 제가 조금이나마 도움이 되었을 따름입니다. (Bujokhan jega jogeumina ma doumi doeeosseul ttareumieopnida.)
"I, being inadequate, merely managed to be of a little help." (Extreme humility, self-deprecation.)
  1. 1Conveying Resignation, Powerlessness, or Acceptance:
When circumstances restrict your options, and you find yourself able to do "nothing more than" a particular action or simply wait, this pattern effectively communicates that feeling of resignation or acceptance. It highlights the external constraints on your agency.
  • 저희로서는 그저 상황을 지켜볼 따름입니다. (Jeohuiroseoneun geujeo sanghwangeul jikyeobol ttareumieopnida.)
"As for us, we can merely observe the situation." (Implying no ability to intervene or change things.)
  • 아무것도 할 수 없어 기다릴 따름이었다. (Amugeotdo hal su eopseo gidaril ttareumieotda.)
"As I could do nothing, I merely waited." (A statement of past resignation due to helplessness.)
  1. 1Dramatic, Poetic, or Emotional Contexts:
In literature, song lyrics, dramatic speeches, or heartfelt apologies, -ㄹ/을 따름이다 can intensify the emotional impact. It signifies a pure, unadulterated emotion or action, often with a sense of finality or deep sincerity.
  • 그저 당신을 사랑했을 따름인데… (Geujeo dangsineul saranghaesseul ttareuminde…)
"I merely loved you, yet…" (A poignant line from a song or drama, expressing a singular, powerful emotion with regret.)
  • 깊은 사과의 말씀을 올릴 따름입니다. (Gipeun sagwa-ui malsseumeul ollil ttareumieopnida.)
"We merely offer words of deep apology." (A formal and solemn apology, emphasizing the sincerity.)
  • In Korean historical dramas (사극, sageuk), you'll often hear characters use this to express loyalty, duty, or resignation to fate, lending an air of gravitas to their dialogue.
  1. 1Refuting Accusations or Clarifying Intent:
If someone misunderstands your actions or accuses you of having ulterior motives, -ㄹ/을 따름이다 can be used to assert that your action was simple and without hidden meaning.
  • 오해이십니다. 저는 단지 사실을 전달했을 따름입니다. (Ohae-isimnida. Jeoneun danji sasireul jeondarhaesseul ttareumieopnida.)
"It's a misunderstanding. I merely conveyed the facts." (A formal rebuttal, clarifying one's limited role.)
By carefully selecting these contexts, you can harness the powerful formality and subtle nuances of -ㄹ/을 따름이다 to convey a precise and sophisticated message in your Korean communication.

Common Mistakes

Despite its clear formation, -ㄹ/을 따름이다 is often misused by learners, primarily due to its high level of formality and the specific nuance it carries. Avoiding these common pitfalls will significantly improve your accuracy and naturalness.
  1. 1Using it in Casual Conversation:
The most frequent mistake is deploying this highly formal expression in informal, everyday speech. It sounds stiff, unnatural, and sometimes even pretentious to native speakers. This isn't a pattern for chatting with friends over coffee or discussing weekend plans.
  • Incorrect: (To a friend) 나 어제 집에서 쉬었을 따름이야. (Na eoje jibeseo swieosseul ttareumiya.)
"I merely rested at home yesterday." (Sounds like you're giving a press conference about your day off.)
  • Correct (Casual): 나 어제 집에서 그냥 쉬었어. (Na eoje jibeseo geunyang swieosseo.)
"I just rested at home yesterday."
  • Correct (Less formal, but still only): 나 어제 집에서 쉬었을 뿐이야. (Na eoje jibeseo swieosseul ppuniya.)
"I merely rested at home yesterday." (Uses -을 뿐이다, which is much more versatile for general "only.")
Why it's wrong: The formality inherent in 따름 clashes severely with the informal context, creating an awkward and unintentionally humorous effect.
  1. 1Incorrect Tense Placement:
As covered in the formation section, the past tense marker -았/었- must attach to the main verb stem before the -(으)ㄹ adnominal. Forgetting this can lead to incorrect or ambiguous meanings.
  • Incorrect: 그 소식을 들을 따름이었다. (Geu sosigeul deureul ttareumieotda.)
(Literally: "It was merely that one would hear the news." - Sounds less like a past action, more like a past intention or potential.)
  • Correct: 그 소식을 들었을 따름이었다. (Geu sosigeul deureosseul ttareumieotda.)
"I merely heard that news." (Clearly expresses a completed past action.)
Why it's wrong: Conjugating the copula 이다 to the past tense (이었다) while leaving the main verb in the prospective adnominal form (-(으)ㄹ) shifts the emphasis. It sounds like the state of merely doing something was in the past, rather than the action itself being in the past. Always mark the tense on the main action.
  1. 1Using it in Questions:
-ㄹ/을 따름이다 is inherently a declarative pattern. It functions to make a statement of fact, humility, or resignation. Therefore, it is almost never used in interrogative sentences.
  • Incorrect: 그것이 진실일 따름입니까? (Geugeosi jinsiril ttareumimnikka?)
"Is it merely the truth?" (Sounds very awkward and unnatural.)
  • Correct (Using other patterns): 그것이 진실일 뿐입니까? (Geugeosi jinsiril ppunimnikka?)
"Is that merely the truth?" (Uses -을 뿐이다 for questions.)
Why it's wrong: The rhetorical nature of -ㄹ/을 따름이다 is to declare a state of being or action, not to inquire about it. It doesn't combine grammatically or semantically with question markers in a natural way.
  1. 1Confusing it with -(으)ㄹ 수밖에 없다:
While both express a form of restriction, their core meanings are distinct. -ㄹ/을 수밖에 없다 means "there is no choice but to," focusing on the absolute lack of alternatives. -ㄹ/을 따름이다 means "it is merely/only (this action)," focusing on the singular nature of the action itself, even if alternatives technically existed but were not taken, or if the action was a humble fulfillment of duty.
  • 늦어서 택시를 탈 수밖에 없었어요. (Neujeoseo taeksireul tal su bakke eopseosseoyo.)
"I was late, so I had no choice but to take a taxi." (Emphasizes no other option due to lateness.)
  • 저는 그저 택시를 탔을 따름입니다. (Jeoneun geujeo taeksireul tasseul ttareumieopnida.)
"I merely took a taxi." (Emphasizes the simple act, perhaps downplaying it, not necessarily a lack of choice.)
Why it's wrong to confuse them: One highlights the absence of alternatives, the other highlights the singularity of the chosen action. The nuance of constraint is different.
By being mindful of these common errors, you can ensure your use of -ㄹ/을 따름이다 is both grammatically correct and contextually appropriate, elevating your Korean to a more sophisticated level.

Real Conversations

While -ㄹ/을 따름이다 is inherently formal, its application extends beyond textbooks into various real-world scenarios where gravity, humility, or objective reporting is required. Here's how you might encounter or use it in modern contexts.

Workplace/Professional Settings (Reports, Emails, Meetings):

In professional environments, maintaining a formal and respectful tone is crucial. -ㄹ/을 따름이다 helps in presenting information objectively or conveying humility.

- Email to a superior:

보고서 내용은 현재까지의 상황을 요약했을 따름입니다. (Bogoseo naeyongeun hyeonjaekkajiui sanghwangeul yoyakhaesseul ttareumieopnida.)

"The report content merely summarized the situation up to now." (A humble way to present findings, implying no personal interpretation.)

- During a project meeting (presenting data):

저희는 시장 조사의 결과를 그대로 전달할 따름입니다. (Jeohui-neun sijang josaui gyeolgwareul geudaero jeondarhal ttareumieopnida.)

"We are merely conveying the results of the market research as they are." (Emphasizes objective reporting without bias.)

Public Statements (Press Conferences, Official Announcements):

Governments, corporations, or public figures often use -ㄹ/을 따름이다 to issue formal statements, particularly when addressing sensitive issues, clarifying positions, or making promises.

- Company press release regarding an incident:

당사는 고객 여러분의 불편을 최소화하기 위해 노력할 따름입니다. (Dangsaneun gogaek yeoreobunui bulpyeoneul choesohwagi wihae noryeokal ttareumieopnida.)

"Our company will merely strive to minimize the inconvenience of our customers." (A formal, humble commitment.)

- Government official responding to criticism:

해당 결정은 법과 원칙에 따라 이루어졌을 따름임을 밝힙니다. (Haedang gyeoljeongeun beopgwa wonchig-e ttara irueojyeosseul ttareumim-eul balkimnida.)

"We clarify that the decision was merely made according to laws and principles." (A formal defense, emphasizing adherence to rules.)

Literary or Dramatic Contexts (Novels, K-dramas, Song Lyrics):

Here, -ㄹ/을 따름이다 adds emotional depth, solemnity, or a sense of fate and resignation. It's often paired with adverbs like 그저 (geujeo, just/merely) or 단지 (danji, only) to heighten the effect.

- From a K-drama monologue (heartbroken character):

나는 그저 당신을 지켜보고 싶었을 따름인데… (Naneun geujeo dangsineul jikyeobogo sipeosseul ttareuminde…)

"I merely wanted to watch over you, yet…" (Expresses a singular, unfulfilled desire with regret.)

- From a philosophical essay or profound statement:

인간은 자연의 섭리에 순응할 따름이다. (Inganeun jayeonui seopri-e sununghal ttareumida.)

"Humans merely conform to the providence of nature." (A statement of deep philosophical resignation.)

Humble Acceptance of Praise (Cultural Insight):

In Korean culture, it is common to deflect praise. -ㄹ/을 따름이다 is an excellent way to do this while maintaining formality.

- After receiving an award or compliment:

큰 영광입니다. 저는 주어진 역할에 충실했을 따름입니다. (Keun yeonggwang-imnida. Jeoneun jueojin yeokhare chungsilhaesseul ttareumieopnida.)

"It's a great honor. I merely remained faithful to my given role." (A very polite and humble acceptance.)

While you might occasionally hear -ㄹ/을 따름이에요 (hae-yo form) in slightly less formal but still respectful contexts, the dominant usage remains -ㄹ/을 따름입니다 (hamnida form) or -ㄹ/을 따름이다 (dictionary form, especially in writing). Its rarity in everyday chat makes its appearance in these specific situations particularly impactful, signaling a speaker who is careful with their words and respectful of the communicative context.

Quick FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions and clarifications to solidify your understanding of -ㄹ/을 따름이다.
Q1: Can I use -ㄹ/을 따름이다 with adjectives?
Yes, you can, but it is less common than with verbs and carries a slightly different nuance. When used with adjectives, it typically expresses that a state or feeling merely exists or is the only thing one can describe. It often intensifies the adjective's meaning in a formal way, implying a deep, unadulterated state.
  • 그저 부러울 따름입니다. (Geujeo bureoul ttareumieopnida.)
"I am merely envious." / "It is merely something to be envious of." (Expresses pure, strong envy.)
  • 진심으로 고마울 따름이에요. (Jinsimeuro gomaul ttareumieyo.)
"I am truly grateful." / "It is merely something to be truly grateful for." (Emphasizes deep, unmixed gratitude.)
Q2: Is -ㄹ/을 따름이다 interchangeable with -ㄹ/을 뿐이다?
No, they are generally not interchangeable, despite both conveying "only" or "merely." The distinction lies primarily in their formality, nuance, and common usage contexts. Understanding this difference is crucial for B2 learners.
| Feature | -ㄹ/을 따름이다 | -ㄹ/을 뿐이다 |
| :---------------- | :------------------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------ |
| Formality | Highly Formal. Used in written language, speeches, official statements, and solemn contexts. | Neutral to Semi-Formal. Can be used in both written and spoken language; more versatile. |
| Core Nuance | Constraint, Humility, Resignation, Objective Fact. Emphasizes the singular action as all that was or could be done, often with a sense of duty or fate. | Simple Limitation. Emphasizes that something is only or just what it is, with no added meaning or ulterior motive. Can be purely factual.
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| Implied Tone | Solemn, serious, respectful, humble, detached, resigned. | Neutral, explanatory, sometimes dismissive. |
| Adverb Usage | Often paired with 그저 (geujeo, just/merely), 오직 (ojik, only), 단지 (danji, merely). | Often paired with 그저, 단지. |
| Examples | 저는 맡은 바를 다했을 따름입니다. (I merely did my duty.) | 저는 농담을 했을 뿐이에요. (I merely made a joke.) |
| | 결과를 기다릴 따름입니다. (I can only wait for the results.) | 이것은 단지 시작일 뿐이다. (This is only the beginning.) |
Think of -ㄹ/을 따름이다 as wearing a tuxedo – it's for special, formal occasions. -ㄹ/을 뿐이다 is more like a nice casual shirt – suitable for most situations where you want to express "only" without the added weight of solemnity or duty.
Q3: How does -ㄹ/을 따름이다 differ from -ㄹ/을 수밖에 없다?
Both patterns imply a lack of alternatives or options, but their focus is distinct:
  • -ㄹ/을 수밖에 없다 (-(eu)l su bakke eopda): This literally means "there is no option/way other than (doing) X." Its primary focus is on the absolute lack of choice or the unavoidability of an action due to external circumstances or logical necessity. It expresses that one must do something because there are no other viable options.
  • 비가 와서 집에 있을 수밖에 없었다. (Biga waseo jibe isseul su bakke eopseotda.)
"Because it rained, I had no choice but to stay home."
  • -ㄹ/을 따름이다 (-(eu)l ttareumida): This focuses on the singularity of the action as the only thing done or to be done, often with connotations of humility, resignation, or objective fact. While it can imply a lack of choice, its emphasis is more on what was done (or will be done) and the restricted nature of that action, rather than the non-existence of alternatives.
  • 비를 피해서 집에 있었을 따름입니다. (Bireul pihaeseo jibe isseosseul ttareumieopnida.)
"I merely stayed home to avoid the rain." (Humble statement of a simple past action.)
In essence, -ㄹ/을 수밖에 없다 states an obligation stemming from a lack of options, while -ㄹ/을 따름이다 formally states the limited scope of an action or state, often with a nuance of modesty or fate.
Q4: Is -ㄹ/을 따름이다 common in modern Korean?
Yes, but selectively so. It is not frequently used in spontaneous, informal daily conversations. However, it remains very common and appropriate in:
  • Written Korean: Especially in news articles, official reports, academic papers, and formal emails.
  • Formal Speech: Public addresses, political statements, legal proceedings, and interviews.
  • Literary and Dramatic Works: To convey deep emotion, solemnity, or a sense of fate.
Its usage marks a sophisticated command of the language, demonstrating an awareness of register and a desire for precise, formal communication. While you might not hear it from a young person texting, you will absolutely encounter it in any serious Korean discourse.

Formation Table

Verb Stem Ending Result
가다
-ㄹ
갈 따름이다
먹다
-을
먹을 따름이다
하다
-ㄹ
할 따름이다
읽다
-을
읽을 따름이다
보다
-ㄹ
볼 따름이다
듣다
-을
들을 따름이다

Meanings

This structure indicates that the subject is doing nothing more than the action described, or that a situation is limited to a specific state.

1

Modesty/Humility

Used to downplay one's own achievements or actions.

“제가 한 일은 그저 도와드렸을 따름입니다.”

“그는 그저 자기 할 일을 했을 따름이다.”

2

Resignation/Acceptance

Used to express that there is no other choice but to accept a situation.

“이제는 결과를 기다릴 따름이다.”

“우리는 그저 지켜볼 따름이었다.”

Reference Table

Reference table for Formal Only: Merely (-ㄹ/을 따름이다)
Form Structure Example
Affirmative
V-(으)ㄹ 따름이다
갈 따름이다
Past
V-(으)ㄹ 따름이었다
갔을 따름이었다
Polite
V-(으)ㄹ 따름입니다
갈 따름입니다
Honorific
V-(으)ㄹ 따름이십니다
가실 따름이십니다

Formality Spectrum

Formal
제 할 일을 할 따름입니다.

제 할 일을 할 따름입니다. (Workplace)

Neutral
할 일을 할 따름이에요.

할 일을 할 따름이에요. (Workplace)

Informal
할 일을 할 따름이야.

할 일을 할 따름이야. (Workplace)

Slang
그냥 하는 거지 뭐.

그냥 하는 거지 뭐. (Workplace)

Nuance Map

따름이다

Usage

  • 겸손 Humility
  • 체념 Resignation
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Examples by Level

1

그저 기다릴 따름입니다.

I am just waiting.

1

저는 공부할 따름입니다.

I am only studying.

1

그는 사실을 말했을 따름이다.

He merely told the truth.

1

우리는 최선을 다할 따름입니다.

We are merely doing our best.

1

운명에 맡길 따름이다.

I can only leave it to fate.

1

그저 역사의 흐름을 지켜볼 따름이었다.

I was merely observing the flow of history.

Easily Confused

Formal Only: Merely (-ㄹ/을 따름이다) vs -(으)ㄹ 뿐이다

Both mean 'only'.

Common Mistakes

✗

먹다 따름이다

✓

먹을 따름이다

Must use the modifier form.
✗

예쁠 따름이다

✓

예쁘게 보일 따름이다

Usually used with verbs, not adjectives.
✗

그것은 따름이다

✓

그것은 ~할 따름이다

Needs a verb before it.
✗

그저 따름이다

✓

그저 ~할 따름이다

Incomplete sentence structure.

Sentence Patterns

저는 그저 ___ 따름입니다.

Real World Usage

Job Interview common

제 할 일을 했을 따름입니다.

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💡

Use for Humility

Always use this when you want to sound professional and humble.

Smart Tips

Use this to deflect praise humbly.

감사합니다. → 도와드렸을 따름입니다.

Pronunciation

tta-reum-i-da

Linking

The 'ㄹ' in 따름 is pronounced clearly.

Falling

할 따름입니다↘

Finality and humility.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of '따름' as 'Tally-ho, I'm only doing this!' It's a formal way to tally up your actions as 'just this'.

Visual Association

Imagine a humble servant bowing while saying 'I am merely doing my duty.'

Rhyme

When you want to sound humble and grand, use 따름이다 to make them understand.

Story

A scholar finishes a book. A student asks how he did it. The scholar replies, 'I just wrote the words.' He uses '썼을 따름이다' to show his humility.

Word Web

겸손체념격식제한문어체

Challenge

Write three sentences about your day using this grammar to describe your actions humbly.

Cultural Notes

Used to show respect to superiors by downplaying one's own effort.

Derived from the noun '따름' meaning 'following' or 'depending on'.

Conversation Starters

“

Why did you help him?

Journal Prompts

Describe a time you were humble about an achievement.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

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Test Yourself

Fill in the blank.

저는 그저 사실을 ___ 따름입니다.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 말했을
Past tense is appropriate here.

Score: /1

Practice Exercises

1 exercises
Fill in the blank.

저는 그저 사실을 ___ 따름입니다.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 말했을
Past tense is appropriate here.

Score: /1

Practice Bank

10 exercises
Conjugate '듣다' (to listen) with this pattern. Fill in the Blank

그저 ___ 따름입니다.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 들을
Match the verb to its correct form. Match Pairs

Connect the pairs:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: ["\uac00\ub2e4 : \uac08 \ub530\ub984\uc774\ub2e4","\uc0b4\ub2e4 : \uc0b4 \ub530\ub984\uc774\ub2e4","\uba39\ub2e4 : \uba39\uc744 \ub530\ub984\uc774\ub2e4","\ub3d5\ub2e4 : \ub3c4\uc6b8 \ub530\ub984\uc774\ub2e4"]
Arrange the words to say 'I am merely grateful.' Sentence Reorder

Build the sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 저는 감사할 따름입니다
When is it appropriate to use this grammar? Multiple Choice

Choose the best situation:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Expressing regret in a formal letter.
Fix the politeness level. Error Correction

사장님, 저는 시키는 대로 했을 따름이야.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 사장님, 저는 시키는 대로 했을 따름입니다.
Translate 'I only told the truth.' Translation

Translate into Korean (formal).

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 사실을 말했을 따름입니다.
Conjugate '모르다' (to not know). Fill in the Blank

저는 아무것도 ___ ___.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 모를 따름입니다
Which implies you had NO other choice? Multiple Choice

Nuance check:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 갈 따름입니다.
Correct the past tense usage. Error Correction

어제는 피곤할 따름이었다.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 어제는 피곤했을 따름이다.
Reorder: 'It is just amazing.' Sentence Reorder

Make the sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 정말 놀라울 따름이네요

Score: /10

FAQ (1)

No, it is for verbs.

Scaffolded Practice

1

1

Mastery Progress

Needs Practice

Improving

Strong

Mastered

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In Other Languages

Japanese high

〜にすぎない

Japanese uses a different grammatical structure for the limitation.

Chinese moderate

只不过

Chinese is more flexible with word order.

Spanish low

solamente

Korean uses a verb-ending construction.

German low

nur

Korean is agglutinative.

French low

ne... que

Korean is affirmative.

Arabic low

فقط

Korean is a complex verb ending.

Learning Path

Prerequisites

Previous
Just/Only: How to use -ㄹ/을 뿐이다
Next
Advanced Negation: -지 아니하다 (The 'Long' No)

Learn These First

A1 Requires

Present Tense: The Polite 'Yo' Style (아/어/여요)

Overview Korean verbal conjugation might initially seem complex due to its multiple politeness levels and shifting endin...

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B2

Formal 'By' Agent (-에 의해)

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Based On: -을/를 바탕으로

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The 'Double Passive' Vibe (Advanced Causative Passive)

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The Inference Ending: It looks like... (-나/는가 보다)

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