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.
- Verb/Adjective Stem ending with a vowel + 시거나
- Verb/Adjective Stem ending with a consonant + 으시거나
Formation Diagram
[Verb/Adjective Stem] + (으)시거나
| Stem Ending | Add | Example Verb | Conjugation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vowel | -시거나 | 가다 (to go) | 가시거나 |
| Consonant | -으시거나 | 읽다 (to read) | 읽으시거나 |
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
Omitting the honorific marker 시:
- Incorrect: 할아버지께서 산책하거나 집에 계세요.
- Correct: 할아버지께서 산책하시거나 집에 계세요.
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
- How do you attach ~(으)시거나 to the verb 먹다 (to eat)?
- Answer: 드시거나 (먹다's honorific form is 드시다, then add 거나)
- Fill in the blank with the correct form of ~(으)시거나:
- 어머님께서 영화를 보_____ 책을 읽으세요.
- Answer: 시거나 (보다 → 보시거나)