Processing keyword: ~서는 [seoneun] (But in)

Korean Grammar Point: ~서는 [seoneun] (But in)

1. Introduction

In Korean, the particle ~서는 (seoneun) is used to emphasize contrast or to highlight a particular condition in a sentence. It often conveys the nuance of "but in" or "but when it comes to" in English, drawing attention to a specific aspect or situation for emphasis or contrast.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

The particle ~서는 combines ~서 (a connective particle) with 는 (the topic marker). It is used to:

• Emphasize contrast or exception.
• Highlight a specific condition or situation.
• Indicate that under certain circumstances, the result is different.

Structure

The structure of ~서는 is as follows:

[Verb Stem] + -아/어/여서 + 는
[Noun] + 에서는

Formation Diagram

For verbs:

Verb Stem + 아/어/여서 + 는

For nouns:

Noun + 에서는

Detailed Explanation

1. For Verbs:
   • ~아/어/여서 is the connective form of the verb, meaning "and then," "so," or "because."
   • Adding 는 emphasizes the topic or contrasts it with something else.
   • ~아서/어서/여서는 can be used to indicate that if an action is done in a certain way, a particular (often undesirable) result occurs.
2. For Nouns:
   • ~에서 indicates a location or context.
   • Adding 는 emphasizes that location or context as the topic of contrast.

Visual Aid: Structure Table

Form	Usage	Example
Verb Stem + 아/어/여서는	Emphasizing action/state	먹어서는 (but in eating)
Noun + 에서는	Emphasizing context	학교에서는 (but in school)

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3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• ~지만 (but):
  • Usage: Simply connects two clauses with contrasting information.
  • Example: 나는 먹었지만 배고파. (I ate, but I'm hungry.)
• ~(으)려면 (if one intends to):
  • Usage: Indicates intention or plan with conditions.
  • Example: 한국어를 배우려면 열심히 공부해야 해요. (If you intend to learn Korean, you must study hard.)
• Difference with ~서는:
  • ~서는 emphasizes the contrast within the context or condition itself rather than just connecting two contrasting statements.

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4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Informal Spoken:
   • 한국어만 공부해서는 유창해질 수 없어.
     • But in only studying Korean, you can't become fluent.
     • (Emphasizes that just studying isn't enough.)
2. Formal Written:
   • 노력하지 않고서는 성공할 수 없습니다.
     • But in not making an effort, you cannot succeed.
     • (Highlights the necessity of effort for success.)
3. Casual Conversation:
   • 이렇게 해서는 문제를 해결할 수 없어.
     • But in doing it like this, you can't solve the problem.
     • (Points out that the current method is ineffective.)
4. Polite Spoken:
   • 시간을 낭비해서는 안 돼요.
     • But in wasting time, you shouldn't.
     • (Advises against wasting time.)
5. Written Advice:
   • 서두르지 않고서는 기차를 놓칠 거예요.
     • But if you don't hurry, you'll miss the train.
     • (Emphasizes the need to hurry.)

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• In Korean culture, indirect expressions are often used to convey advice or criticism politely.
• Using ~서는 allows the speaker to imply that a certain action may lead to negative consequences without directly stating so.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• The usage of ~서는 can be adjusted for formality by changing the sentence-ending conjugation.
• In formal situations, use formal verb endings like -습니다, -어요, etc.
• In informal situations, casual endings like -아/어, -지, etc., are appropriate.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 안정을 취하지 않고서는 회복이 어려워요.
  • But in not taking rest, recovery is difficult.
• 준비 없이서는 좋은 결과를 기대하기 어려워요.
  • But in being unprepared, it's hard to expect good results.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Omitting the Topic Marker 는:
   • Incorrect: 노력해서 성공할 수 없어.
   • Correct: 노력해서는 성공할 수 없어.
   • Including 는 emphasizes the condition being contrasted.
2. Using ~서는 with Inappropriate Verb Forms:
   • Incorrect: 먹어서는 안 된다. (using 먹어서 without context)
   • Correct: 과식을 해서서는 안 된다.
   • Ensure the action/condition makes sense in context.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that ~서는 is like highlighting a condition with a "spotlight," emphasizing "but in doing this..."
• Practice: Create sentences using ~서는 to express that an action will lead to an undesirable result.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~서는 is used to emphasize a condition or action that results in a contrasting or undesirable outcome.
• It combines the connective ~서 with the topic marker 는.
• Useful for giving advice, warnings, or highlighting exceptions.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the function of ~서는 in a sentence?
   • Answer: To emphasize contrast or highlight a specific condition, often indicating that a certain action leads to an undesirable result.
2. How do you form ~서는 with a verb?
   • Answer: Attach 아/어/여서 to the verb stem and add the topic marker 는.
3. Provide an example sentence using ~서는.
   • Answer Example: 시간을 낭비해서는 안 됩니다. (But in wasting time, you shouldn't.)

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Feel free to practice by creating your own sentences using ~서는 to reinforce your understanding!

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