어떡하다

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Meaning and Usage

The verb '어떡하다' is commonly used to express concern or uncertainty about what action to take in a difficult situation. It literally means 'how to do' or 'what to do.' It often appears in questions or expressions of worry.

Common Contexts

You will hear '어떡하다' when someone faces a problem or unexpected event and wonders about the next step. It is informal and frequently used in spoken Korean.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 어떡하지? (What should I do?) — a very common phrase expressing worry or seeking advice.
  • 어떡해요? (What should I do? polite) — polite form used in formal or respectful contexts.
  • 어떡하다 보면 (If you manage somehow) — used to encourage or suggest that a solution will come with effort.

Important Notes

Do not confuse '어떡하다' with '어떻게 하다,' which is more neutral and can mean 'how to do' something in a general sense. '어떡하다' often carries an emotional nuance of concern or urgency.

Use '어떡하다' to express real-life dilemmas or problems, making your Korean sound natural and empathetic.

Example Sentences

시험을 못 봤는데 어떡하지?

Siheomeul mot bwatneunde eotteokhaji?

I did poorly on the exam, what should I do?

비가 오는데 우산이 없으면 어떡해요?

Biga oneunde usani eopseumyeon eotteokhaeyo?

It’s raining but I don’t have an umbrella, what should I do?

어떡하다 보면 길이 보일 거예요.

Eotteokhada bomyeon giri boil geoyeyo.

If you manage somehow, you will find a way.