Learn Korean: Verb + 필요 없다

Let’s take a look at the Korean sentence pattern Verb + 필요 없다. We use this to express that it is not necessary to do something. For example, I was at the supermarket and about to pay for the goods in my cart. The lady in front of me was short of ten dollars so she was advised to give up some items. I told the cashier that I would for them instead and handed her the cash. The lady was thankful and promised to pay me back right away. I said You don’t have to (pay back). The main verb is 갚다 (to pay back). We take the verb stem (갚) and attach 을. If the verb stem ends in a vowel use ㄹ. Then, we add 필요(가) 없다. The actual sentence is 갚을 필요(가) 없어(요).

그 얘기할 필요 없어. 다 알고 있으니까.

You don’t need to tell me that. Because I know everything.

사과할 필요 없어. 내 탓이야.

There is no need to apologize. It is my fault.

알 거 없어요.

You don’t have to know.