Example Sentences#

1. “아, 이럴 수가,” 쥐가 말했다.¹
   “Ah, how could this be,” the mouse said.
   • 수 is a bound noun that can mean ‘way’, ‘means’, ‘possibility’, or ‘ability’.
   • 가 is a subject marker.
   • ㄹ 수 있다 forms a grammar pattern that expresses ability or possibility. Adding 가 emphasizes the existence or non-existence of a way or possibility, often highlighting contrast or emotional emphasis. The verb 있다 (to exist) is implied here.
   • 이럴 수가 is a common expression that conveys astonishment or disbelief at a situation. It often derives from fuller expressions such as 어떻게 이럴 수가 있어! (How can it be like this!) or conversationally implied phrases like 네가 어떻게 나한테 이럴 수 있어? (How could you do this to me?).