Usage of the connective suffix '-어'
The suffix '-어' is attached to the verb stem to indicate a reason or cause for the action in the main clause. It is a very common connective ending used in everyday Korean to link two clauses where the first clause explains why the second happens.
Meaning and nuance
When you use '-어', you imply a causal relationship, similar to 'because' or 'so' in English. It often appears in informal to polite speech and is essential for expressing cause and effect naturally.
Common collocations and patterns
- Verb stem + -어 + 서: Indicates cause or reason.
- 늦어서 (because I was late): Common in apologies.
- 배가 고파서 (because I was hungry): Explains motivation for an action.
Register and formality
'-어' is neutral and can be used in polite speech when combined with polite verb endings (e.g., -어요, -습니다). It is less formal than '-니까' but very common in daily conversation.
Common learner mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '-어' with '-니까', which also expresses cause but can sound more formal or demanding. Use '-어' for softer, more natural causal connections in everyday speech.