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Lv 4Grammar expressionSeen on past TOPIK papersIntermediate · TOPIK II

-는 셈이다

amounts to ~ / practically ~

Attaches to a verb stem (or -은 for a completed state) to conclude that, when you think about it, a situation essentially comes down to a certain fact, even if not literally true.

Form

Other shapes
-은 셈이다

Examples

  • 한 달에 두 번밖에 안 쉬니까 거의 매일 일하는 셈이다.

    Since I only rest twice a month, I practically work every day.

  • 가격을 반으로 깎아 줬으니 거의 공짜로 준 셈이다.

    Since they cut the price in half, it's practically the same as giving it for free.

  • 십 년 동안 같은 회사에 다녔으니 전문가가 된 셈이에요.

    Having worked at the same company for ten years, I've basically become an expert.

Examples written by Korea TOPIK Center.

Quick check

  1. 1. What does ‘-는 셈이다’ mean?

  2. 2. Which form means “amounts to ~ / practically ~”?