Processing keyword: ~아/어 서는 [a/eo seoneun] (Although)

Korean Grammar Point: ~아/어 서는 [a/eo seoneun] (Although)

TOPIK Grammar Point: ~아/어 서는 [a/eo seoneun] (Although)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ~아/어 서는 is used to express a contradiction or contrast between two statements, akin to saying "although" in English. It allows the speaker to acknowledge a certain fact while introducing another that opposes or contrasts it.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning:
  • ~아/어 서는 can be translated to "although" or "even though". It indicates an expectation versus reality, highlighting that despite a certain condition or situation, something different is true or happening.

Structure

• This grammar point is formed by attaching ~아/어 to the verb stem of the verb that conveys the contrasting idea, combined with 서는. The choice of 아 or 어 depends on the vowel in the last syllable of the verb stem.

Formation Diagram

Summary of Formation

• If the verb stem ends in ㅏ or ㅗ, use 아서 + 는.
• For all other endings, use 어서 + 는.

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• ~지만 [jiman] (but): While ~지만 simply introduces a contrasting statement, ~아/어 서는 emphasizes the unexpectedness of the contrast.
  • Example:
    • ~지만: 날씨가 더운데, 나는 밖에 나갔어요. (The weather is hot, but I went outside.)
    • ~아/어 서는: 날씨가 더운데, 나는 밖에 나가서는 안 돼요. (Although the weather is hot, I shouldn't go outside.)

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Context:

   • 비싸서는 살 수 없어요. (Although it’s expensive, I can’t buy it.)

2. Informal Context:

   • 맛있어서 자주 먹어. (Although it’s delicious, I eat it often.)

3. Written Context:

   • 그 영화는 재미있어서 많은 사람들이 봤다. (Although the movie is interesting, many people watched it.)

4. Spoken Context:

   • 학교가 멀어서 아침에 일찍 일어나야 해. (Although school is far, I have to wake up early in the morning.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, expressing contrasts and contradictions is common in conversation, emphasizing humility or consideration of the listener's perspective. The use of ~아/어 서는 aligns with the Korean way of gently presenting unexpected outcomes.

Idiomatic Expressions

• Using this grammar point in phrases like, "아름다운데 춥다," (Although it’s beautiful, it’s cold) demonstrates the balance and complexity often found in Korean expression.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Learners often confuse ~아/어 서는 with ~지만, using them interchangeably, which can lead to ambiguity in the statements.
• Failing to correctly determine the appropriate 아 or 어 can also lead to grammatical errors.

Learning Strategies

• Use mnemonic devices: Remember “Although” as A for 아 and O for 어 when deciding which to use based on the vowel.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~아/어 서는 is used to express contrast, similar to "although."
• The formation depends on the verb ending: ~아서 for endings ㅏ or ㅗ, and ~어서 for others.
• It is valuable in both formal and informal contexts while managing the tone of conversations effectively.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~아/어 서는 mean in English?
2. What is the structure of forming ~아/어 서는 for the verb "가다"?
3. How does ~아/어 서는 differ from ~지만? Feel free to review the examples and take the quiz for reinforcement!