Verb + 겠 (1): Expressing Strong Intention or Will
1. What does 겠 mean?
The grammar point 겠 is used to express the speaker’s strong will or intention to do something in the future. It is commonly used with the speaker as the subject: I (저, 나) or we (우리).
2. Grammar Structure:
Verb stem + 겠습니다 / 겠어요
(Formal / Polite)
2.1 Expressing Strong Will or Determination
Use 겠 to show your strong decision or firm plan to do something.
🔹 (저는) 열심히 공부하겠습니다.
I will study hard. (Strong will)
🔹 (저는) 올해 담배를 꼭 끊겠습니다.
I will definitely quit smoking this year.
2.2 Fixed Expressions You Should Know
These polite and common daily expressions use 겠:
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알겠습니다. → I understand. / Okay.
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모르겠습니다. → I don’t know.
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잘 먹겠습니다. → I will enjoy the meal.
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학교 다녀오겠습니다. → I’m off to school.
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처음 뵙겠습니다. → Nice to meet you. (for the first time)
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실례지만, 말씀 좀 묻겠습니다. → Excuse me, may I ask something?
These expressions show respect and formality, often used in polite or first-time conversations.
2.3 Difference Between 겠 and (으)ㄹ 거예요
Both forms talk about the future, but:
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겠 shows strong will or firm decision
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(으)ㄹ 거예요 is more about plan or probability
▶ 저는 여행을 하겠어요.
(I strongly intend to travel.)
▶ 저는 여행을 할 거예요.
(I think I’ll travel.)
💡 Tip: For fixed polite expressions like 잘 먹겠습니다, you cannot use 잘 먹을 거예요. (It’s incorrect in that context.)
