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Lv 4Grammar expressionSeen on past TOPIK papersIntermediate · TOPIK II

-는 걸 보니

judging by the fact that ~

Attaches to a verb stem to draw a conclusion based on visible evidence the speaker has just observed; 걸 is the contracted spoken form of 것을, common in casual conversation.

Examples

  • 표정이 밝은 걸 보니 좋은 일이 있나 봐요.

    Judging by your bright expression, something good must have happened.

  • 우산을 챙기는 걸 보니 오늘 비가 오나 보다.

    Judging by the fact that you're bringing an umbrella, it must be raining today.

  • 아이가 잘 웃는 걸 보니 기분이 좋은 모양이에요.

    Judging by how much the child is laughing, they seem to be in a good mood.

Examples written by Korea TOPIK Center.

Quick check

  1. 1. What does ‘-는 걸 보니’ mean?

  2. 2. Which form means “judging by the fact that ~”?