Level 6

탓

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Meaning and Usage

The Korean noun '탓' is used to indicate fault, blame, or cause of a negative outcome. It often appears after a noun or a verb stem combined with '-는' or '-은/ㄴ' to express the reason or cause for something undesirable.

Common Patterns

  • ~탓이다: Used to state that something is the fault or cause of a particular situation.
  • ~탓에: Indicates the reason or cause, often with a negative nuance.

Nuance and Register

'탓' usually carries a negative connotation, implying responsibility or blame. It is commonly used in both spoken and written Korean, especially in formal or neutral contexts. It is not typically used to assign blame in a harsh or accusatory way but rather to explain causes.

Common Collocations

  • ~탓이다: to say 'it is because of...'
  • ~탓에: to say 'due to...'
  • ~탓으로 돌리다: to blame something on someone or something

Learner Tips

A common mistake is confusing '탓' with '덕' (meaning 'thanks to' with a positive nuance). Remember, '탓' is used for negative causes or faults. Also, '탓' is a noun and requires proper particles to connect with verbs or nouns in sentences.

Example Sentences

그 일은 네 탓이 아니야.

Geu il-eun ne tat-i aniya.

That matter is not your fault.

교통사고가 난 것은 운전자의 부주의 탓이다.

Gyotongsagoga nan geos-eun unjeonja-ui bujuui tat-ida.

The traffic accident happened because of the driver's carelessness.

시험을 못 본 것은 공부를 안 한 탓이다.

Siheom-eul mot bon geos-eun gongbu-reul an han tat-ida.

Failing the exam is because of not studying.