In this lesson we are looking at the structure -(으)ㄹ 만하다. This structure has a variety of meanings and it is very important to pay close attention to the context in order to understand what kind of meaning is intended.

Generally, -(으)ㄹ 만하다 means that there is enough reason or justification for a certain situation or that something is doable or possible, but mainly in the sense of being "bearable" to do.

Examples 가다 → 갈 만하다 [gal man-ha-da] = to be possible to go = to be worth going (and checking out the place) = there is enough justifiable reason for one to go

먹다 → 먹을 만하다 [meo-geul man-ha-da] = to be edible = to taste okay (the taste is bearable) = the taste is acceptable

늦다 → 늦을 만하다 [neu-jeul man-ha-da] = to be forgivable for being late = there is enough reason for being late

놀라다 → 놀랄 만하다 [nol-lal man-ha-da] = to be natural to be surprised/shocked = there is enough reason for being surprisd/shocked

Sample Sentences 1. 그럴 만해요. [geu-reol man-hae-yo.] = It’s understandable to be so. = It’s possible. = There is enough reason for it to be so.

2. 그 사람은 인기가 있을 만해요. [geu sa-ra-meun in-gi-ga i-sseul man-hae-yo.] = There is enough reason that he is popular. = It’s understandable why he is popular.

3. 이 책 읽을 만해요? [i chaek il-geul man-hae-yo?] = Is this book worth reading? = Is this book good? = Do you recommend this book?

4. 괜찮아요. 참을 만해요. [gwaen-cha-na-yo. cha-meul man-hae-yo.] = I’m okay. It’s endurable. = I’m okay. It’s bearable.

5. 가족끼리 한 번쯤 갈 만해요. [ga-jok-kki-ri han beon-jjeum gal man-hae-yo.] = (The place) is worth visiting once (or twice) with family.