-아/어서 (Sequential) vs -아/어서 (Reason)

Korean -아/어서 can mean sequence (“and then”) or reason (“so/because”). Learn how to tell them apart.

Quick takeaway

Same connective, two readings: sequence when listing steps in order, reason when the first clause explains the second.

Beginner

-아/어서 (Sequential)

And then

Used to link two actions that occur in sequential order, where the second action is closely related to or naturally follows the first action.

When to use it

Chronological steps: “I woke up and (then) washed my face.”

Examples

  • 시장에 가서 과일을 샀어요.

    I went to the market and then bought fruit there.

  • 의자에 앉아서 기다리세요.

    Please sit in the chair and wait.

  • 선물을 사서 친구에게 줬어요.

    I bought a present and gave it to my friend.

Full lesson
Beginner

-아/어서 (Reason)

Because / So

Used to express the reason or cause for the action/state in the following clause. It connects a reason with a result.

When to use it

Cause and result: “I was hungry, so I ate.”

Examples

  • 배가 아파서 병원에 갔어요.

    I had a stomachache, so I went to the hospital.

  • 늦어서 죄송합니다.

    I'm sorry for being late.

  • 날씨가 더워서 아이스크림을 먹었어요.

    Because the weather was hot, I ate ice cream.

Full lesson