Unit 8: It's Just That (-(으)ㄹ 따름이다)

When you want to humbly or strongly state that "this is the ONLY thing" or "it is simply that...", you use the highly advanced Easy Korean grammar point -(으)ㄹ 따름이다.

Structure

Verb / Adjective Stem + -(으)ㄹ 따름이다

• 감사하다 -> 감사할 따름입니다 (I am simply grateful / All I can do is be thankful)
• 죄송하다 -> 죄송할 따름입니다 (I am simply sorry)
• 최선을 다하다 -> 최선을 다할 따름입니다 (I will merely do my best)

Usage

This is extremely common in formal apologies, acceptance speeches, or official statements. It means there is no other emotion or intention other than the one stated.

Examples

• 이렇게 큰 상을 주셔서 감사할 따름입니다. (I am simply grateful that you gave me such a big award.)
• 여러분께 불편을 드려 죄송할 따름입니다. (I am simply sorry for causing you inconvenience.)
• 저는 제 할 일을 했을 따름입니다. (I merely did what I had to do. - Past tense)