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,
orI 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.
2
Here’s a breakdown of the conjugation rules:
3
| Verb Stem Ending | Rule | Example Verb (Dictionary Form) | Stem | Adnominal Ending | Combined Form | English Translation |
4
| :----------------------- | :----------------------------------------- | :----------------------------- | :------- | :--------------- | :------------------- | :------------------------------ |
5
| Vowel | Add -ㄹ 따름이다 |
가다 (gada, to go) | 가- | –ㄹ | 갈 따름이다 | It's merely going. |
6
| | |
하다 (hada, to do) | 하- | –ㄹ | 할 따름이다 | It's merely doing. |
7
| | |
보내다 (bonaeda, to send) | 보내- | –ㄹ | 보낼 따름이다 | It's merely sending. |
8
| Consonant (with
받침) | Add -을 따름이다 | 먹다 (meokda, to eat) | 먹- | –을 | 먹을 따름이다 | It's merely eating. |
9
| | |
읽다 (ikda, to read) | 읽- | –을 | 읽을 따름이다 | It's merely reading. |
10
| | |
찾다 (chatda, to find) | 찾- | –을 | 찾을 따름이다 | It's merely finding. |
11
| Consonant (
ㄹ irregulars) | ㄹ remains, add 따름이다 (effectively –ㄹ 따름이다)| 만들다 (mandeulda, to make) | 만들- | –ㄹ | 만들 따름이다 | It's merely making. |
12
| | |
살다 (salda, to live) | 살- | –ㄹ | 살 따름이다 | It's merely living. |
13
| | |
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).
16
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:
18
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.
- 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.)
- 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.)
- 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.)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.- 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.
- 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.
1. 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.)
2. 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.)
3. 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.)
4. 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.
|
| 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
| 词干类型 | 规则 | 例句动词 | 接续形式理论 |
|---|---|---|---|
|
元音结尾
|
+ ㄹ 따름이다
|
하다 (做)
|
할 따름이다
|
|
辅音结尾
|
+ 을 따름이다
|
믿다 (相信)
|
믿을 따름이다
|
|
ㄹ 结尾
|
+ 따름이다
|
살다 (生活)
|
살 따름이다
|
|
过去时
|
过去时词干 + 을 따름이다
|
했다 (做了)
|
했을 따름이다
|
|
形容词 (元音)
|
+ ㄹ 따름이다
|
기쁘다 (高兴)
|
기쁠 따름이다
|
|
形容词 (辅音)
|
+ 을 따름이다
|
좋다 (好)
|
좋을 따름이다
|
正式程度
正式
제 할 일을 할 따름입니다.
제 할 일을 할 따름입니다. (Workplace)
中性
할 일을 할 따름이에요.
할 일을 할 따름이에요. (Workplace)
非正式
할 일을 할 따름이야.
할 일을 할 따름이야. (Workplace)
俚语
그냥 하는 거지 뭐.
그냥 하는 거지 뭐. (Workplace)
따름이다 的核心概念
-ㄹ/을 따름이다
核心语感
- 谦逊 淡化自己的功劳
- 无奈 别无选择
- 正式性 不适用于日常闲聊
“仅仅”之争：따름이다 vs. 뿐이다
따름이다 (Ttareumida)
非常正式
面试、演讲
侧重动作/状态
仅仅做了某事
뿐이다 (Ppunida)
中性/常用
日常生活
多功能
可接名词
接续规则流程图
1
有收音 (辅音) 吗？
YES
加 -을 따름이다
NO
检查是否为 ㄹ
2
以 ㄹ 结尾吗？
YES
保留 ㄹ + 따름이다
NO ↓
3
元音结尾吗？
YES
加 -ㄹ 따름이다
NO ↓
使用场景指南
👔
推荐使用 ✅
- • 工作面试
- • 法庭陈述
- • 道歉邮件
🎮
避免使用 ❌
- • 游戏聊天
- • 跟妈妈撒娇
- • 给朋友发短信
按水平分级的例句
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.
容易混淆
Formal Only: Merely (-ㄹ/을 따름이다)
对比
-(으)ㄹ 뿐이다
Both mean 'only'.
常见错误
✗
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.
句型
저는 그저 ___ 따름입니다.
Real World Usage
Job Interview
common
제 할 일을 했을 따름입니다.
💬
“凡尔赛”的高级表达
韩国文化非常看重谦逊。当别人夸奖你时，用这一句能显得你非常有礼貌：«그저 운이 좋았을 따름입니다.»
⚠️
语境检查
如果你对好朋友用这个词，他们可能会以为你在演古装剧！日常聊天请慎用：«고마울 따름이야.»
🎯
名词连接的小陷阱
和
-뿐이다 不同，你不能直接把它接在名词后面。名词后面要先加个动词：«학생일 따름이다» 而不是 «학생 따름이다»。Smart Tips
Use this to deflect praise humbly.
감사합니다.
→
도와드렸을 따름입니다.
发音
tta-reum-i-da
Linking
The 'ㄹ' in 따름 is pronounced clearly.
Falling
할 따름입니다↘
Finality and humility.
记住它
记忆技巧
Think of '따름' as 'Tally-ho, I'm only doing this!' It's a formal way to tally up your actions as 'just this'.
视觉联想
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
挑战
Write three sentences about your day using this grammar to describe your actions humbly.
文化笔记
Used to show respect to superiors by downplaying one's own effort.
Derived from the noun '따름' meaning 'following' or 'depending on'.
对话开场白
“
Why did you help him?
日记主题
Describe a time you were humble about an achievement.
常见错误
Incorrect
正确
Incorrect
正确
Incorrect
正确
Incorrect
正确
Test Yourself
完成句子，表达“我只是努力工作了而已”。
열심히 ___ ___ ___.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 일했을 따름입니다
因为工作是发生在过去的事情，所以我们要把句型接在过去时词干
일했- 后面。
哪句话听起来最适合正式的道歉？
多项选择
选择最佳选项：
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 죄송할 따름입니다.
죄송하다 是道歉的谦称，配合 -ㅂ니다 的正式结尾，最符合 따름이다 的语感。
找出句子中的错误。
Error Correction
Find and fix the mistake:
저는 그저 밥을 먹는 따름입니다.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 저는 그저 밥을 먹을 따름입니다.
这个语法的固定格式是
-(으)ㄹ 따름이다，不能用 -는 或 -은。Score: /3
练习题
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
将 '듣다' (听) 与此语法结合。
填空
그저 ___ 따름입니다.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 들을
将动词与其正确的形式匹配。
Match Pairs
连接对应的形式：
✓ 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"]
排列单词以表达“我唯有感激”。
Sentence Reorder
组合句子。
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 저는 감사할 따름입니다
什么时候使用这个语法最得体？
多项选择
选择最合适的使用场景：
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 在正式信函中表达歉意。
修正敬语等级。
Error Correction
사장님, 저는 시키는 대로 했을 따름이야.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 사장님, 저는 시키는 대로 했을 따름입니다.
翻译 '我只是说了实话而已'。
翻译
翻译成韩语（正式语气）。
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 사실을 말했을 따름입니다.
结合 '모르다' (不知道)。
填空
저는 아무것도 ___ ___.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 모를 따름입니다
哪句话暗示你别无选择？
多项选择
语气检查：
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 갈 따름입니다.
纠正过去时的用法。
Error Correction
어제는 피곤할 따름이었다.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 어제는 피곤했을 따름이다.
排列单词：'真是令人惊讶。'
Sentence Reorder
组合句子。
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 정말 놀라울 따름이네요
Score: /10
常见问题 (1)
No, it is for verbs.
Scaffolded Practice
1
1
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
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
Learn These First
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