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-(으)러 vs -(으)려고

Beginner · TOPIK I

Both mean 'in order to'. -(으)러 only works when the main verb is a movement verb (가다, 오다, 다니다); -(으)려고 works with any verb but cannot be followed by a command or suggestion.

-(으)러A connective ending used to express the purpose of an action such as going and coming.-(으)려고A connective ending used to indicate that one has an intention or desire of doing a certain act.

Rules of thumb

  • If the main verb is 가다/오다/다니다/나가다 etc., use -(으)러 (책을 빌리러 도서관에 가요).
  • With any other main verb (exercise, learn, save…), only -(으)려고 works.
  • If the main clause is a command or suggestion, use -(으)러 (밥 먹으러 갑시다), not -(으)려고.
  • -(으)려고 하다 also means 'plan to' or 'be about to' (막 나가려고 했어요 'I was just about to leave').
  • Both attach to verbs only, not adjectives.

Example sentences

  • -(으)러

    I'm going to the library to borrow a book.

  • -(으)려고

    I work out every day to lose weight.

  • 살을 빼러 매일 운동해요.

    Incorrect

    I work out to lose weight. [Wrong: the main verb isn't a movement verb, so use -(eu)ryeogo]

  • -(으)러

    Let's go out for lunch together.

  • -(으)려고

    I'm learning Korean to get a job at a Korean company.

Often confused with

← All confused pairs