Core Pattern Rule: -는 대로
The pattern -는 대로 is a versatile connector that has two primary meanings, depending on the context.
Meaning & Usage
Meaning 1: "As soon as" / "Immediately after"
This indicates that the second action takes place right after the first action is completed. It connects two events in a close temporal sequence.
Meaning 2: "In accordance with" / "As" / "The way that..."
This indicates that the second action is performed in the manner, way, or state described by the first clause. It's about following a guide, an instruction, or a natural flow.
Formation
Action Verbs (Present Tense): Attach -는 대로 directly to the verb stem, regardless of whether it ends in a vowel or a consonant.
가다 → 가는 대로
먹다 → 먹는 대로
Action Verbs (Past Tense): For the "in accordance with" meaning, you can use the past tense form -(으)ㄴ 대로.
보다 → 본 대로 (as you saw)
약속하다 → 약속한 대로 (as promised)
도착하는 대로 전화해. / 시키는 대로 해. / 본 대로 말해.
Two Meanings: "As Soon As" vs. "In Accordance With"
Let's look closer at how to distinguish the two meanings based on context.
"As Soon As" (Temporal Sequence)
This usage connects two events in time, where the first is a trigger for the second. It's often used with verbs related to arrival, completion, or receiving something.
Context: 집에 가는 대로 문자해. (Text me as soon as you go home.)
Analysis: The action of going home triggers the action of sending a text immediately upon arrival.
"In Accordance With" (Manner/Method)
This usage describes how an action is done—based on instructions, feelings, thoughts, or observations.
Context: 하고 싶은 대로 해. (Do as you want.)
Analysis: The action of "doing" should follow the manner of "what you want."
월급 받는 대로 갚을게. / 시키는 대로 하세요. / 생각나는 대로 말하지 마. / 마음 가는 대로 해.