Korean grammar patterns › Level 5
-기(가) 무섭게
no sooner than, the (very) moment
Level 5 · TOPIK II · advanced
How to use it
Clause 2 happens the very instant clause 1 happens, often showing eagerness or a rush. It is an exaggerated, vivid expression, used for past events or repeated habits.
Forming it
| 받다 | → 받기가 무섭게 |
| 끝나다 | → 끝나기 무섭게 |
| 눕다 | → 눕기가 무섭게 |
Not used with commands or suggestions: ✗ 도착하기가 무섭게 전화하세요 → 도착하자마자 … .
Examples
월급을 받기가 무섭게 다 써 버렸어요.
No sooner had I gotten my salary than I spent it all.
새 휴대폰이 나오기 무섭게 다 팔렸어요.
The new phone sold out the moment it came out.
Compared with similar patterns
-자마자 is neutral 'as soon as' and allows commands; -자 is narrative; -기가 무섭게 is the strongest and most vivid.