-게 vs -도록

Intermediate · TOPIK II

For purpose ('so that…'), -게 and -도록 are largely interchangeable; -게 is more colloquial and -도록 more formal. -도록 can also mean 'to the point of / until', while -게 also turns adjectives into adverbs.

-게A connective ending used when the preceding statement is the purpose, result, method, amount, etc., of something mentioned in the following statement.-도록A connective ending used when the preceding statement is the purpose, result, method, amount, etc., of something mentioned in the following statement.

Rules of thumb

Purpose 'so that someone/something can…': both work (잘 들리게/들리도록 크게 말해 주세요 'Speak up so we can hear').
Formal instructions, notices and advice prefer -도록 (늦지 않도록 주의하십시오 'Take care not to be late'); -도록 하다 = 'make sure to…'.
Degree or time limit ('until / to the point that'): only -도록 (밤새도록 'all night long', 목이 쉬도록 'till I went hoarse').
Making adverbs from adjectives (맛있게, 예쁘게, 빠르게): only -게.

Example sentences

-게
Please speak up so people at the back can hear.
-도록
Please take care not to catch a cold.
-도록
I talked with my friend all night long.
-게
Enjoy your meal.
Both work
Please keep quiet so the child can sleep.

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