Lesson 3
In this lesson, we will look at the structure -(으)ㄹ 만하다. This structure has a variety of meanings, so it is very important to pay close attention to the context in order to understand what the intention is.
Generally, -(으)ㄹ 만하다 means that there is enough reason or justification for a certain situation, or that something is doable or possible, but mainly in the sense of being “bearable” to do.
Let us take a look at some examples.
가다
→ 갈 만하다
= to be possible to go
= to be worth going (and checking out the place)
= there is enough justifiable reason for one to go
Ex)
입장료 만 원이라서 갈 만해요.
= The entrance fee is just 10,000 won, so it is worth going.
* In this situation, it sounds like other places are much more expensive than 10,000 won, perhaps 50,000 won. So, your intention is more like, “Since this place is cheaper, it is worth going.”
먹다
→ 먹을 만하다
= to be edible
= to taste okay (the taste is bearable)
= the taste is acceptable
Ex)
먹을 만해요?
= Does it taste okay?
늦다
→ 늦을 만하다
= to be forgivable for being late
= there is enough reason for being late
놀라다
→ 놀랄 만하다
= to be natural to be surprised/shocked
= there is enough reason to be surprised/shocked
Sample Sentences
그럴 만해요.
= It is understandable to be so.
= It is possible.
= There is enough reason for it to be so.
* This is a fixed phrase.
그 사람은 인기가 있을 만해요.
= There is enough reason that he is popular.
= It is understandable why he is popular.
이 책 읽을 만해요?
= Is this book worth reading?
= Is this book good?
= Do you recommend this book?
* This sounds more natural than saying, “추천해요? (= Do you recommend it?)”
괜찮아요. 참을 만해요.
= I am okay. It is endurable.
= I am okay. I can bear it.
가족끼리 한 번쯤 갈 만해요.
= (The place) is worth visiting once (or twice) with family.