Grammar
-는 채로
while remaining in a given state
Form
Verb stem + -는 채로 — “while still…”, “with … remaining…”.
Function
Shows a continuing state or action accompanying another action; it has not ended before the next action.
Why this form?
-면서 — “while”: two simultaneous actions, without stressing a maintained state.
-(으)ㄴ 채로 — “with … having been done”: emphasizes a resulting state already established.
Forms not to confuse
- -면서
웃으면서 말했어요. — She spoke while smiling.
- -(으)ㄴ 채로
문을 연 채로 나갔어요. — I left with the door open.
Examples
나는 다리가 떨리는 채로 문 쪽으로 간다. — I walk toward the door while my legs are trembling.
아이가 우는 채로 잠들었어요. — The child fell asleep while still crying.