Let's learn how to use the V+ 도록 하다 Korean Grammar with some simple and easy-to-understand example sentences.
V+ 도록 하다 “make sure to,” “try to,” “let’s,” or “ensure that.”
USE:
The grammar -도록 하다 is used to give suggestions, instructions, or resolutions.
It means “make sure to,” “try to,” “let’s,” or “ensure that.”
It often expresses determination, encouragement, or advice — depending on the context.
CONJUGATION RULE
Attach -도록 하다 to the verb stem.
Form:
Verb stem + 도록 하다
Examples:
- 가다 → 가도록 하다 (make sure to go)
- 먹다 → 먹도록 하다 (try to eat)
- 공부하다 → 공부하도록 하다 (make sure to study)
- 일찍 자다 → 일찍 자도록 하다 (make sure to sleep early)
EXAMPLE SENTENCES:
1. 내일은 늦지 않도록 하세요.
→ Please make sure not to be late tomorrow.
2. 건강을 위해서 운동하도록 하세요.
→ Please try to exercise for your health.
3. 오늘 안에 이 일을 끝내도록 합시다.
→ Let’s finish this work within today.
4. 앞으로는 실수하지 않도록 할게요.
→ I’ll make sure not to make mistakes in the future.
5. 시험 전에 복습하도록 하세요.
→ Make sure to review before the exam.
Additional Notes
-도록 하다 can be used in different tones, depending on who’s speaking:
Formal / polite instruction:
→ “조심하도록 하세요.” (Please be careful.)Personal resolution / promise:
→ “다음에는 꼭 노력하도록 할게요.” (I’ll make sure to try harder next time.)Suggestion (let’s):
→ “시간 있을 때 만나도록 합시다.” (Let’s meet when we have time.)
It’s more polite and indirect than simply using -세요 or -아요/어요, so it sounds softer and more formal.
When used with negative forms, it expresses “make sure not to…”
→ 늦지 않도록 하세요. (Make sure not to be late.)
