What it means
-(으)ㄹ 때 means "when" or "at the time when." Used to describe a time condition or circumstance. One of the most useful time-related grammar patterns.
Nuance & when to use
갈 때 = when going. 먹을 때 = when eating. 힘들 때 = when it's hard. 갈 때마다 = every time you go. Very natural — Koreans use 때 constantly. 그때 = at that time (referring to a past/specific moment). 이때 = at this time.
⚠ Common mistake
When vs if: -ㄹ 때 = when (time context). -(으)면 = if (conditional). 갈 때 = when (you) go (certain). 가면 = if (you) go (uncertain/conditional).
Example sentences
See also
FAQ
When is this used?
갈 때 = when going. 먹을 때 = when eating. 힘들 때 = when it's hard. 갈 때마다 = every time you go. Very natural — Koreans use 때 constantly. 그때 = at that time (referring to a past/specific moment). 이때 = at this time.
What's a common mistake?
When vs if: -ㄹ 때 = when (time context). -(으)면 = if (conditional). 갈 때 = when (you) go (certain). 가면 = if (you) go (uncertain/conditional).
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