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고 말다

 
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1.

Unintentional or Inevitable Result

ended up, finally did
Expresses that an action happened unintentionally, unexpectedly, or inevitably.
Example
  • 그만 화를 내고 말았어요.
    I ended up losing my temper.
  • 친구의 비밀을 말하고 말았습니다.
    I ended up telling my friend's secret.
  • 다이어트 중인데 케이크를 먹고 말았어.
    I was on a diet, but I ended up eating cake.
Related to
Some of the pattern(s) used in this grammar

Usage

고 말다 is used to express that something happened:

  • Unintentionally or Unexpectedly: The action was not planned or desired.
  • Inevitably: Despite efforts to prevent it, the action occurred.
  • With Regret or Frustration: Often conveys the speaker's disappointment.

Note: When used in the future tense, 고 말겠다 (Strong Determination) shows the speaker's strong will or determination.

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