V/A + -거든, N + -(이)거든 (If / once ... happens, then...)
Meaning: If / when (states a realizable condition; the main clause must be a command, suggestion, or promise/intention).
Conjugation & Pattern
- V/A + -거든 | Noun (N) + -(이)거든
- Main clause takes: imperatives (-(으)세요), propositives (-(으)ㅂ시다), or speaker's will (-겠-, -(으)ㄹ게요)
Detailed Usage
Unlike general -(으)면, connective -거든 is used for specific, realizable conditions, and the main clause is restricted to imperatives, propositives, or expressions of the speaker's volition.
Example Sentences
- 1
많이 피곤하거든 먼저 들어가서 쉬세요.
Mani pigonhageodeun meonjeo deureogaseo swiseyo.
If you are very tired, please go in and rest first.
- 2
물이 끓거든 라면을 넣읍시다.
Muri kkeulgeodeun ramyeoneul neoteupsida.
Once the water boils, let's put the ramen in.
- 3
방학이 되거든 아르바이트를 하려고 해요.
Banghagi doegeodeun areubaiteureul haryeogo haeyo.
When vacation starts, I plan to work a part-time job.
Important Notes
Cannot be followed by a purely descriptive statement (e.g., 기분이 좋을 텐데 is ungrammatical after -거든). Distinguish from sentence-final '-거든요' ('because').
