What it means
-아/어서 connects two clauses showing cause and result — similar to "because" or "so" in English. The first clause is the reason, the second is the result. One of the most essential connectors in Korean.
Nuance & when to use
-아/어서 ≠ -때문에. Both mean "because" but: -아/어서 is lighter, shows sequence of feeling/result. -때문에 is stronger, more explanatory. 피곤해서 쉬어요 = I'm tired so I'm resting. 피곤하기 때문에 쉬어요 = Because I'm tired (emphasizes reason).
⚠ Common mistake
Cannot use -아/어서 with imperatives or suggestions when the speaker is involved in both: NOT 밥 먹어서 학교에 가세요. Use -고 instead: 밥 먹고 학교에 가세요 (Eat and then go to school).
Example sentences
See also
FAQ
When is this used?
-아/어서 ≠ -때문에. Both mean "because" but: -아/어서 is lighter, shows sequence of feeling/result. -때문에 is stronger, more explanatory. 피곤해서 쉬어요 = I'm tired so I'm resting. 피곤하기 때문에 쉬어요 = Because I'm tired (emphasizes reason).
What's a common mistake?
Cannot use -아/어서 with imperatives or suggestions when the speaker is involved in both: NOT 밥 먹어서 학교에 가세요. Use -고 instead: 밥 먹고 학교에 가세요 (Eat and then go to school).
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