Let's learn how to use the V/A + 아/어야지(요) Korean Grammar with some simple and easy-to-understand example sentences.
V/A + 아/어야지(요)- “should / I guess I should / it would be right to”
USE:
- Expresses a natural expectation, decision, or gentle obligation
- Means “should / I guess I should / it would be right to”
- Often used when:
- The speaker realizes something on their own
- Giving soft advice or encouragement
- Talking to oneself or someone close
- Politer than –아/어야 해요, and sounds less strict
English meaning:
“I should…” / “You should…” / “I guess I’ll have to…”
CONJUGATION:
Verb / Adjective + 아/어야지(요)
아 verbs → 아야지(요)
가다 → 가야지(요)
어 verbs → 어야지(요)
먹다 → 먹어야지(요)
하다 verbs → 해야지(요)
공부하다 → 공부해야지(요)
요 is optional:
Without 요 → casual / self-talk
With 요 → polite, friendly tone
EXAMPLE SENTENCES:
- 내일 시험이 있으니까 오늘 열심히 공부해야지요.
→ I have an exam tomorrow, so I should study hard today. - 너무 늦었으니까 이제 집에 가야지.
→ It’s too late, so I should go home now. - 피곤해 보여요. 오늘은 좀 쉬어야지요.
→ You look tired. You should rest a bit today. - 약속을 했으니까 지켜야지요.
→ Since I made a promise, I should keep it. - 다음에는 더 조심해야지.
→ Next time, I should be more careful.
Additional Notes
- Softer and more natural than –아/어야 해요
Comparison:
- 해야 해요 → strong obligation
- 해야지요 → natural decision / gentle advice
