Processing keyword: ~고 말하다 [go malhada] (Say that...)
Korean Grammar Point: ~고 말하다 [go malhada] (Say that...)
1. Introduction
In Korean, indirect speech is commonly used to report what someone has said without quoting them verbatim. One of the key grammar structures for indirect quotations is ~고 말하다, which translates to "say that..." in English. This lesson will delve into the uses, formation, and nuances of this grammar point to help you incorporate it naturally into your Korean conversations.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
The structure ~고 말하다 is used to convey what someone has said indirectly. It attaches to the end of a verb, adjective, or noun clause to report speech or thoughts.
Structure
Formation Diagram
- Verb / Adjective Stem +~고 말하다
- Noun + (이)라고 말하다
Components
- ~고: A connective ending used for direct quotation or connecting clauses.
- 말하다: The verb meaning "to say" or "to speak."
Conjugation
For Verbs and Adjectives
| Stem Type | Conjugation Example | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 하다 | 한다고 말하다 | Say that (someone) does/is doing |
| 먹다 | 먹는다고 말하다 | Say that (someone) eats/is eating |
| 예쁘다 | 예쁘다고 말하다 | Say that (someone/something) is pretty |
For Nouns
- If the noun ends with a consonant: Noun + 이라고 말하다
- If the noun ends with a vowel: Noun + 라고 말하다
| Noun | Conjugation Example | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 학생 | 학생이라고 말하다 | Say that (someone) is a student |
| 친구 | 친구라고 말하다 | Say that (someone) is a friend |
3. Comparative Analysis
Similar Grammar Points
- ~다고 하다: Also means "say that..." and is more commonly used in everyday speech.
- ~라고 말하다: Specifically used after direct quotations or nouns. Difference: While ~고 말하다 emphasizes the act of saying, ~다고 하다 is a more general expression for indirect speech.
4. Examples in Context
Formal Situations
- 선생님이 내일 시험이 있다고 말했어요.
- Translation: The teacher said that there is an exam tomorrow.
- 회장님께서 회의를 연기하겠다고 말하셨습니다.
- Translation: The president said that the meeting will be postponed.
Informal Situations
- 친구가 오늘 못 온다고 말했어.
- Translation: My friend said that he can't come today.
- 그녀는 그 영화가 재미없다고 말했어.
- Translation: She said that the movie is not interesting.
Written Context
- 신문에서 그 사건이 사실이라고 말했습니다.
- Translation: The newspaper said that the incident is true.
Spoken Context
- 엄마가 빨리 집에 오라고 말했어.
- Translation: Mom said to come home quickly.
5. Cultural Notes
Politeness Levels
In Korean, the verb 말하다 can be adjusted for politeness:
- 말하다 → Informal speech
- 말합니다 → Formal polite speech
- 말씀이시다 → Honorific form
Indirect Speech in Korean Culture
Indirect speech is prevalent in Korean communication, reflecting the culture's emphasis on politeness and indirectness to maintain harmony and show respect.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Common Errors
- Using direct quotes incorrectly: Mixing up ~고 말하다 with direct quotation endings like ~라고 말했다.
- Incorrect noun forms: Forgetting to add 이라고 after nouns ending with a consonant.
Tips
- Mnemonic Device: Remember that ~고 말하다 is like adding "that" in English indirect speech.
- Practice Variations: Try conjugating with different verbs and nouns to become comfortable with the structure.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ~고 말하다 is used for indirect speech, meaning "say that...".
- Attach ~고 말하다 to verb and adjective stems.
- Use (이)라고 말하다 after nouns.
Quick Recap Quiz
- How do you say "He said that he is busy" in Korean?
- Answer: 그가 바쁘다고 말했어요.
- Fill in the blank: 그녀는 학생____ 말했어요.
- Answer: 이라고 (그녀는 학생이라고 말했어요.)
- True or False: ~고 말하다 and ~다고 하다 can be used interchangeably.
- Answer: True, but ~다고 하다 is more commonly used in everyday speech.
Feel free to revisit this lesson and practice using ~고 말하다 in your own sentences to enhance your understanding and fluency.