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Unit 13: At Least, Instead (-(이)라도)

When you don't have exactly what you want, but you will settle for the next best thing, you use -(이)라도 in Easy Korean. It translates to "at least (this)" or "even just (this)".

Structure

Noun + -(이)라도

  • Vowel: -라도 (커피 -> 커피라도: at least coffee)
  • Consonant: -이라도 (물 -> 물이라도: at least water)

Nuances

It is used in several ways: 1. Suggesting something that is not the best choice, but is acceptable. 2. Showing that the choice doesn't matter much (e.g., 누구라도 - anyone). 3. Expressing suspicion (e.g., 감기라도 - maybe a cold?).

Examples

  • 밥이 없으면 라면이라도 먹을래요? (If there is no rice, do you want to eat at least ramen?)
  • 차라도 한 잔 하실래요? (Would you like to have at least a cup of tea?)
  • 오늘 바쁘면 내일이라도 만나요. (If you are busy today, let's meet tomorrow at least.)