Core Pattern Rule: -(으)ㄹ 턱이 없다
This pattern is used to express strong denial or disbelief, emphasizing that something is completely impossible or has no reason to be true. It translates to "there's no way that..." or "it's impossible that..."
Meaning & Usage
Meaning: The word 턱 means "reason," "cause," or "grounds." So, 턱이 없다 literally means "there are no grounds for (something to happen)." It's a very strong way to say something is illogical or will not happen.
When to use: Use it when you are absolutely certain about a negative outcome or fact. It's much stronger than simply saying 안 할 거예요 (I won't do it) or 아닐 거예요 (It probably isn't).
Formation
This pattern attaches to the stem of verbs, adjectives, or the noun + 이다 form.
Vowel or ㄹ stem + -ㄹ 턱이 없다
알다 (to know) → 알 턱이 없다
오다 (to come) → 올 턱이 없다
진짜이다 (to be real) → 진짜일 턱이 없다
Consonant stem + -을 턱이 없다
갚다 (to pay back) → 갚을 턱이 없다
찾다 (to find) → 찾을 턱이 없다
있다 (to exist/have) → 있을 턱이 없다
걔가 돈을 갚을 턱이 없어. / 그게 진짜일 턱이 없어. / 쉬울 턱이 없어. / 제가 할 수 있을 턱이 없어요.
Pattern Variations: Declarative vs. Rhetorical Question
This pattern appears in two common forms, both expressing the same core meaning of impossibility but with a slight difference in nuance.
Declarative: -(으)ㄹ 턱이 없다/없어요
This is a direct, strong statement of fact. You are declaring that there is absolutely no possibility.
Example: 비쌀 턱이 없어. (There's no way it's expensive.) - This is a firm declaration.
Rhetorical Question: -(으)ㄹ 턱이 있나(요)?
This form poses a question to which the answer is an obvious "no." It translates to "Is there any way that...?" or "How could it possibly...?" This can feel slightly more conversational or even a bit softer, as if you're inviting the listener to agree with your obvious conclusion.
Example: 맛있을 턱이 있나요? (Is there any way it's delicious? -> Of course not.)