Processing keyword: ~(으)시거나 [(eu)sigeona] (Either... or... [honorific])

Korean Grammar Point: ~(으)시거나 [(eu)sigeona] (Either... or... [honorific])

1. Introduction

The Korean grammar point ~(으)시거나 is an honorific connective ending used to express a choice between two or more actions or states. It translates to "either... or..." in English and adds a level of respect toward the subject of the sentence.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• ~(으)시거나 is used to list options in honorific speech.
• It connects verbs or adjectives, indicating that the subject (honored person) may do one action or another.

Structure

Formation

To form ~(으)시거나, attach ~(으)시거나 to the verb or adjective stem.

1. Verb/Adjective Stem ending with a vowel + 시거나
2. Verb/Adjective Stem ending with a consonant + 으시거나

Formation Diagram

[Verb/Adjective Stem] + (으)시거나

3. Comparative Analysis

• ~(으)시거나 vs ~거나:
  • ~거나 is the casual form used for non-honorific speech.
  • ~(으)시거나 includes the honorific 시, adding respect. Example:
• Casual: 먹거나 (eat or...)
• Honorific: 드시거나 (eat or...) (Note: 먹다's honorific form is 드시다.)

4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. Formal Spoken

• 선생님께서 내일 오시거나 전화해 주세요.
  • Please either come tomorrow or call, teacher.

2. Formal Written

• 할아버지께서 책을 읽으시거나 음악을 들으십니다.
  • Grandfather either reads a book or listens to music.

3. Informal Spoken (Honorific towards subject)

• 어머님이 식사를 하시거나 좀 쉬세요.
  • Mother, please either eat or rest for a bit.

4. Polite Request

• 사장님께서 결정을 내리시거나 우리에게 알려 주실 거예요.
  • The boss will either make a decision or let us know.

5. Cultural Notes

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• Honorifics are essential in Korean to show respect.
• Using ~(으)시거나 shows respect toward the subject performing the actions.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 드시거나 마시거나 하세요.
  • Please help yourself to food or drinks.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Omitting the honorific marker 시:

   • Incorrect: 할아버지께서 산책하거나 집에 계세요.
   • Correct: 할아버지께서 산책하시거나 집에 계세요.

2. Using casual forms with honorific subjects:

   • Incorrect: 선생님이 오거나 말하거나...
   • Correct: 선생님께서 오시거나 말씀하시거나...

Tips

• Remember to use the honorific 시 when the subject is someone deserving respect (e.g., elders, superiors).
• Pay attention to verb stems ending with consonants or vowels for correct attachment.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~(으)시거나 is used to respectfully present choices.
• Attach 시거나 after vowel-ending stems and 으시거나 after consonant-ending stems.
• Always consider honorifics when the subject requires respect.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you attach ~(으)시거나 to the verb 먹다 (to eat)?
   • Answer: 드시거나 (먹다's honorific form is 드시다, then add 거나)
2. Fill in the blank with the correct form of ~(으)시거나:
   • 어머님께서 영화를 보_____ 책을 읽으세요.
   • Answer: 시거나 (보다 → 보시거나)

Answer ends