Learn Korean: Noun + (으)로

Let’s take a look at the Korean sentence pattern Noun + (으)로. (으)로 is a powerful particle as it has several usages in Korean. It is attached to a noun along with a verb to form a unique vocabulary. 로 is used when the noun ends in a vowel and 으로 is used when it ends in a consonant. Here are some of its possible usages.

When attached to a place (부산으로), it means that we are heading to that place as in 부산으로 가고 있어 (I am going to Busan).

When attached to a vehicle (택시로), it means that we are going somewhere through that mode of transportation as in 택시로 갈게 (I will go there by taxi).

When attached to a body part (발로), it means that we are doing something through the use of it as in 발로 찼어 (I kicked him with my foot).

When attached to a material (나무로), it means that something is made of it as in 나무로 만들었어 (It is made of wood).

When attached to a language (한국말로), it means that something is done through the use of the language as in 영어는 한국말로 배웠어요 (I learned English through Korean). Here are more collocations that contain the particle 으로.

한국 시간으로 4시에 걸게.

I will call you at 4PM Korean time.

 

택배로 보내줘.

Send it to me via package delivery.

 

병으로 죽었어요.

She died in an illness.

이메일로 보내 주세요.

Please send it through e-mail.

물로 씻어야지.

You have to wash your face with water.

 

사고로 돌아가셨어요.

He died in an accident.