Core Pattern Rule: -는 길에
This pattern expresses that an action takes place while the subject is in the process of moving from one place to another. It translates to "on the way to/from..." or "while going/coming...".
Formation
Attach -는 길에 directly to the stem of an action verb. This pattern is almost exclusively used with verbs of movement.
가다 (to go): 가는 길에
오다 (to come): 오는 길에
퇴근하다 (to get off work): 퇴근하는 길에
출근하다 (to go to work): 출근하는 길에
Usage
The first clause sets up the journey (e.g., 집에 가는 길에 - on the way home), and the second clause describes an action that happened during that journey (케이크를 샀어 - I bought a cake). The second action doesn't have to happen for the entire duration of the trip, just at some point along the route.
학교 가는 길에 봤어. / 퇴근하는 길에 사 갈게. / 집에 가는 길에 샀어요. / 출근하는 길에 차 사고를 봤어요.
Common Combinations
-는 길에 frequently pairs with certain verbs in the second clause to describe common errands or events that happen while you're out and about.
들르다 (to stop by/drop in): This is used when you make a quick, often unplanned, visit.
지나가는 길에 들렀어. (I stopped by since I was passing by.)
사 오다 / 사 가다 (to buy and bring/take): Used for picking something up on your way.
오는 길에 우유 좀 사 와. (Buy some milk on your way here.)
태워 주다 (to give a ride): A common way to ask for or offer a lift.
가는 길에 태워 주세요. (Please give me a ride on your way.)
보다 / 만나다 (to see / to meet): For things you saw or people you met unexpectedly during your journey.
오는 길에 우연히 만났어. (I met him by chance on my way here.)
지나가는 길에 들렀어요. / 마트 가는 길에 들렀어. / 퇴근하는 길에 케이크를 샀어요. / 오는 길에 우유 좀 사 오세요.
Synonyms & Differences
It's easy to confuse -는 길에 with other patterns that mean "while." Here’s how to tell them apart.