Understanding how to describe gradual change is essential for expressing ideas clearly in Korean.

In this lesson, you will learn how to use “~(으)ㄹ수록”, a key grammar pattern that expresses increasing change over time.

By the end of this guide, you will be able to:

  • Understand the meaning of “~(으)ㄹ수록”
  • Use it naturally in sentences
  • Apply it in TOPIK writing

What is “~(으)ㄹ수록”?

“~(으)ㄹ수록” means “the more… the more…” or “as… increases…”

It is used to describe a situation where one thing changes along with another.

✔ Shows gradual change
✔ Used in comparisons
✔ Common in both speaking and writing

Structure

The structure is:

Verb/Adjective stem + (으)ㄹ수록

This pattern connects two related changes.

Basic Examples

공부할수록 재미있어요.
→ The more I study, the more fun it becomes.

시간이 갈수록 좋아요.
→ As time goes by, it gets better.

연습할수록 실력이 늘어요.
→ The more I practice, the more my skills improve.

Real-Life Usage

한국어를 배울수록 더 흥미로워요.
→ The more I learn Korean, the more interesting it becomes.

날씨가 따뜻해질수록 사람들이 밖에 나와요.
→ As the weather gets warmer, people go outside more.

Key Pattern Explanation

This grammar often follows this structure:

A + (으)ㄹ수록 B

→ As A increases, B also changes

It emphasizes a proportional relationship between two situations.

Common Mistakes

❌ 공부하다수록
✔ 공부할수록

You must change the verb into the correct form before adding “수록”.

TOPIK Writing Tip

This grammar is very useful for writing essays that show development or comparison.

Use it to show change over time:
변화 → 결과 구조

Practice (Try before checking answers)

1. 많이 읽을수록 (________).
→ The more you read, the more you understand.

2. 연습할수록 (________).
→ The more you practice, the better you become.

3. 시간이 지날수록 (________).
→ As time passes, it gets easier.

Answers:

1. 이해가 잘 돼요

2. 실력이 늘어요

3. 더 쉬워져요

Mini Writing

Write 3 sentences using “~(으)ㄹ수록” to describe changes.

Example:
공부할수록 재미있어요.
→ The more I study, the more fun it becomes.

운동할수록 건강해져요.
→ The more I exercise, the healthier I become.

Related Grammar