Futility or frustration are expressed by this pattern. This pattern is used to make a concessive clause which is followed by an independent clause.

- tense is expressed in the final clause, not the clause with 어봤지
- 아봤자 attaches to verbs with a final vowel of 아/오
- 어봤자 attaches to verbs with any other final vowel
- 여봤자 attaches to the 하다 verb
- can be spelled 어/아/여 보았자 as well
- when this pattern is followed by 얼마나 +verb +겠습니까? it shows that one has underestimated the actual size, quantity, or number (ex: 먹어 봤자, 얼마나 먹겠어요?/Even if he eats a lot, how much can he eat?)

Examples:
그 일을 해 봤자, 되지 않아요./Even though you try to do that work, you are unable to do it.
지금 가 봤자, 이미 늦었습니다./Even if you go now, it's already late.