Jamo Reader

-아/어봤자

Even if you try

intermediate

Combines -아/어 (connective) + 보다 (to try) + 았/었 (past) + 자 (concessive). Indicates that even if the action is attempted, it will be pointless or the result will be negative.

  • Futility: "울어봤자 소용없어" (Even if you cry, it's useless)
  • Resignation: "지금 가봤자 늦어" (Even if you go now, you'll be late)