Intermediate (JSON) Estimated read: 3 mins

-도록

A versatile connective with two main uses: (1) Expressing purpose or goal — 'so that X happens', and (2) Expressing degree/result — 'to the extent that X'. Different from '-(으)려고' in that subjects of both clauses CAN differ.

Summary

Equivalent

So that... / Until... / To the point of...

Also: -(으)려고 (In order to - purpose; subject must be same) · -(으)ㄹ 정도로 (To the extent of — result/degree overlaps)

Example

Please explain it simply so that the students can understand.

학생들이 이해할 수 있도록 쉽게 설명해 주세요.

Grammar rules

  • Purpose use: 모두가 이해하도록 설명했어요 (I explained so that everyone would understand).
  • Degree use: 밤을 새도록 공부했어요 (I studied to the point of pulling an all-nighter).

Patterns

1

Purpose

Present · Verb Stem + 도록

2

Extent/Result

Present · Verb/Adj Stem + 도록

Example sentences

Purpose · Present · Verb Stem + 도록

Please explain it simply so that the students can understand.

학생들이 이해할 수 있도록 쉽게 설명해 주세요.

Extent/Result · Present · Verb/Adj Stem + 도록

I cheered to the point that my voice went hoarse.

목이 쉬도록 응원했어요.

Purpose · Present · Verb Stem + 도록

I closed the window so that rain wouldn't come in.

비가 들어오지 않도록 창문을 닫았어요.

Conversation

A: Why are you speaking so loudly?

왜 그렇게 크게 말해요?

B: I'm speaking loudly so that the people in the back can also hear.

뒤에 있는 분들도 들을 수 있도록 크게 말하는 거예요.

Practice

Fill in the blank

Select '-도록' for purpose.

Not waking someone.

Understand easily.