-(으)ㄹ 테면
Used to set a strong condition, often with a confrontational or resigned nuance. The speaker accepts the listener's intention but conditions the follow-up on it.
Summary
Equivalent
If you insist on... / If you're going to...
Also: -(으)려면 (If you intend to... - less confrontational tone)
Example
If you're going to do that job, you should at least prepare sufficiently first.
그 일을 할 테면 먼저 충분히 준비는 해야지요.
Grammar rules
- The speaker's tone implies they doubt the condition will be fulfilled, OR that the listener must face consequences.
- Often occurs in arguments or firm advice.
- Often followed by negative advice or consequences: '할 테면 해 봐' (Go ahead and try it then — implying they'll fail or regret it).
떠날 테면 떠나. 나는 막지 않겠어. (If you're going to leave, then leave. I won't stop you.)
Patterns
Verbs (Strong Conditional)
Future Conditional · Verb Stem + (으)ㄹ 테면
Example sentences
If you're going to do that job, you should at least prepare sufficiently first.
그 일을 할 테면 먼저 충분히 준비는 해야지요.
If you want to finish quickly, you should focus and do it.
빨리 마치고 싶을 테면 집중해서 하세요.
If you're that set on eating it, go ahead. I'm not saying anything.
그렇게 먹고 싶을 테면 먹어. 나는 말 안 해.
Conversation
A: I just want to give up.
저 그냥 포기하고 싶어요.
B: If you're going to give up, go ahead. But you'll definitely regret it later.
포기할 테면 포기해요. 하지만 나중에 반드시 후회할 거예요.
Practice
Fill in the blank
Select the strong conditional form using '-(으)ㄹ 테면'.
Insisting on going.
If you want to succeed.