Learn Korean: 게 + Verb

Let’s take a look at the Korean sentence pattern 게 + Verb. We use this to form adverbs of manner similar to how we attach LY to adjectives in English (e.g. slowly, quietly, and happily). For example, we say Speak confidently (with confidence). The state verb is 자신 있다 (to be confident). We take the verb stem (있) and attach 게. It comes before the main verb. The actual sentence is 자신 있게 말해(요). Some adverbs don’t take this form such as 천천히 (slowly), 열심히 (hard), and 안녕히 (well, in peace).

편하게 살고 싶어.

I want to live comfortably. I want a comfortable life.

맛있게 먹어.

Eat deliciously. Enjoy your meal.

즐겁게 놀아.

Enjoy playing. Play excitingly.