A A Study on the Problems in Using Korean Adverbs of High Degree by Thai learners

Abstract

This study examines the use of high-degree Korean adverbs and explores the challenges Thai learners face in learning them. The findings reveal that modern native Korean speakers use fewer intensifying adverbs than in the past. These adverbs are now shorter and often less frequently used. Thai learners tend to use adverbs in ways similar to native speakers, both in past and modern contexts. However, their usage is limited, often relying on a small set of common expressions. This may be influenced by Korean language textbooks for foreign learners, which often overlook widely used modern adverbs and rarely explain the subtle differences between similar terms. Based on the results, the main issues Thai learners face fall into three areas: (1) grammatical limitations, (2) incorrect word choice, and (3) the act of leaving out adverbs where they are needed. Furthermore, this study can serve as a guideline for the development of teaching materials by including more examples from authentic contexts and providing clear explanations of the differences between near-synonymous adverbs to help learners use the language more accurately and naturally.