Processing keyword: ~고서 [goseo] (After doing)

Korean Grammar Point: ~고서 [goseo] (After doing)

Grammar Point: ~고서 [goseo] (After doing)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ~고서 (goseo) is used to indicate that one action or event occurs after completing another action. It plays a crucial role in conveying the sequence of actions in Korean, making it essential for effective communication.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: ~고서 means "after doing" or "having done" something. It connects two verbs where the second action follows the completion of the first.
• Structure:
  • The construction involves taking the verb stem and attaching -고서.
  • Example Structure: [Verb Stem] + -고서

Formation Diagram

[Action 1] + 고서 → [Action 2]
       |
  (Completion of Action 1)

Examples of Verb Stems

• 가다 (gada - to go) → 가고서 (gagoseo - after going)
• 먹다 (meokda - to eat) → 먹고서 (meokgoseo - after eating)

3. Comparative Analysis

~고서 is similar to other conjunctions that express time sequences, such as:

• -고: Just as ~고 connects two actions but without emphasizing the completion of the first before the second.
  • Example: "간다" (I go) + "먹는다" (I eat) = "가고 먹는다" (I go and eat)
• -은/는 후에: This also indicates "after," but it is often more formal than ~고서.
  • Example: "먹은 후에" (after eating)

Key Difference:

• ~고서 stresses the completion of the first action before the second begins, while the others may not imply complete execution.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:
   • 강의가 끝나고서 집에 갔습니다.
   • (Gang-ui-ga kkeutnago서 jibe gasseumnida.)
   • "After the lecture ended, I went home."
2. Informal:
   • 공부하고서 친구를 만났어.
   • (Gongbuhago서 chingureul mannasseo.)
   • "After studying, I met a friend."
3. Written:
   • 서류를 준비하고서 제출했습니다.
   • (Seoryureul junbihago서 jaechulhaessseumnida.)
   • "After preparing the documents, I submitted them."
4. Spoken:
   • 이사하고서 정리했어.
   • (Isahago서 jeongrihaesseo.)
   • "After moving, I organized (the place)."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• In Korean culture, sequence and order can signify respect for the time and effort of activities. Using ~고서 shows a clear understanding of the sequence of events and respect for the processes involved.

Levels of Politeness

• The level of formality can be signalized in the verbs used with ~고서, and it is essential to match the politeness level to the context (formal, semi-formal, informal).

Idiomatic Expressions

• Korean does not have many idiomatic expressions specifically tied to ~고서, but contextual usage can reflect diligence in completing tasks.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Confusing ~고서 with just ~고 and not indicating the completion of the first action.
• Tip: Remember that ~고서 should always signal that the first action is completed before starting the second action.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic: Think of "go-seo" as "go, then do" to remember the sequence of completion.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~고서 indicates that one action follows another action that has been completed.
• The structure involves verb stems using -고서 to show the sequence clearly.
• It is crucial to observe appropriate levels of politeness in context.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~고서 mean in English?
2. How do you form a sentence using ~고서?
3. What is the difference between ~고서 and just ~고?

Feel free to ask if you need further clarifications or examples!