-아/어 보다
Quick answer: -아/어 보다 means try doing it — give it a go.
How to form it
Same stem rule as -아/어요 + 보다 · 입다 → 입어 보다 · 먹다 → 먹어 보다
In Korean: -아/어요와 같은 규칙 입다 → 입어 보다 먹다 → 먹어 보다
What to know
With a past ending it means have you ever — 먹어 봤어요? is have you tried it? With 세요 it is an invitation to try. Both come up constantly in shops and restaurants.
Examples
- 이 코트를 입어 보세요.Try this coat on.
- 김치를 먹어 봤어요.I've tried kimchi.
- 이 바지를 입어 볼까요?Shall I try these trousers on?
Where it's taught
HanDa Level 1 (TOPIK I), Lesson 24: 이걸로 주세요 — I'll take this one. Also in the Level 1 book.
Practise -아/어 보다 out loud
In the HanDa app this is Level 1, Lesson 24 — drills, a speaking check and an AI teacher that corrects what you say. Free for 7 days.