Beginner Estimated read: 3 mins

-아/어 보다

Used to express attempting or trying out a new action/experience to see what it is like.

Summary

Equivalent

To try doing

Example

I want to try going to Jeju Island once.

제주도에 한번 가 보고 싶어요.

Grammar rules

  • Conjugate the verb using the -아/어 form and attach '보다' (to see).
  • In the past tense (-아/어 봤다), it usually translates to 'have tried [verb]-ing' or 'have the experience of [verb]-ing'.
  • In the imperative (-아/어 보세요), it means 'please try doing [verb]'.
  • It is often used when recommending things to someone (e.g., 'Try eating this!'). Also, DO NOT use it with the verb '보다' (to see) itself (e.g., 봐 보세요 is unnatural).

    이 구두를 신어 보세요. (Please try on these shoes.)

Patterns

1

Verbs with 'ㅏ' or 'ㅗ'

Present/Imperative · Verb Stem + 아 보다

2

Verbs with other vowels

Present/Imperative · Verb Stem + 어 보다

3

하다 Verbs

Present/Imperative · 해 보다

Example sentences

Verbs with other vowels · Present/Imperative · Verb Stem + 어 보다

I want to try going to Jeju Island once.

제주도에 한번 가 보고 싶어요.

Verbs with other vowels · Present/Imperative · Verb Stem + 어 보다

Please try wearing this hat.

이 모자를 한 번 써 보세요.

Verbs with other vowels · Present/Imperative · Verb Stem + 어 보다

Have you tried eating Korean food?

한국 음식을 먹어 봤습니까?

Conversation

A: Will these clothes fit me?

이 옷이 저한테 맞을까요?

B: Try putting them on.

한번 입어 보세요.

Practice

Fill in the blank

Select the correct form to express trying an action.

Calling.

Experience.