N + 이다

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Description

Noun + 이다 : See the usages below:

  1. This is a special type of verb (copula) that links the subject of a sentence with a predicate (a subject complement or an adverbial). In English, this pattern would translate to be, am, is, are, being, was, were, been.
  2. This is also used to connect nouns to certain grammar patterns that normally require a verb or adjective. For example A/V + 면 normally requires an adjective or verb, but we put a noun + 이다 to make it compatible with the pattern.

Notes

  • The opposite pattern is 아니다(to not be).
  • There are no command or suggestion forms.
  • Although mostly attached to nouns, noun like expressions can also be attached.
  • There are various grammar patterns that can't be used with 이다, see the incompatible grammar patterns section below.

Conjugation Rule

High Form

Pattern Case Example
Noun + 입니다 Formal style (받침 or no 받침) 의사입니다, 선생님입니다
Noun + 예요 If there is no 받침 (informal polite) 의사예요
Noun + 이에요 If there is a 받침 (informal polite) 선생님이에요

Low Form

Pattern Case Example
Noun + 야 If there is no 받침 의사야
Noun + 이야 If there is a 받침 선생님이야

Sentence Examples

Korean English Notes
저는 미국인입니다. I'm an American. Formal form
여기는 한국입니다. This is Korea. Formal form
저의 이름은 철수예요. My name is Chul Su. Polite informal form
쟤는 제 친구예요. That person is my friend. Polite informal form
그것은 제 지갑이에요. It is my wallet. Polite informal form
저는 학생이에요. I'm a student. Polite informal form
벌써 겨울이야. It's already winter. Low form
우리 개는 푸들이야. My dog is a poodle. Low form
브래드 피트는 내가 가장 좋아하는 배우야. Brad Pitt is my favorite actor. Low form
오늘이 내 생일이야. Today is my birthday. Low form


Incompatible Grammars

Grammar patterns that can't be used with 이다

  • This grammar pattern cannot be used with grammar patterns that express suggestion or a command, i.e. V + 아/어 + 라 or V + 자

See Also