Grammar9 min read552 views
Korean Conjunctions: Because, But, So, If
How to say "because," "but," "if" in Korean? Textbooks list options without explaining nuances. Here's the clear version.
Published on February 12, 2026
Why Korean Connectors Are Confusing
In English, you have "because." In Korean, you have ~아서, ~니까, ~때문에 — three ways to say "because" with different nuances.
"Because" — 3 Forms
~아서/어서: Natural cause → consequence
비가 와서 우산을 가져왔어요 (It rained so I brought an umbrella)
~(으)니까: Personal justification ("since")
시간이 없으니까 빨리 가자 (Since we don't have time, let's hurry)
~때문에: Because of + noun
비 때문에 못 갔어요 (I couldn't go because of rain)
"But" — ~지만 vs ~(ㄴ/는)데
| Korean | Usage |
|---|---|
| ~지만 | Simple contrast |
| ~(ㄴ/는)데 | Softer, sets context |
"If" — ~(으)면
시간이 있으면 같이 가요 (If you have time, let's go together)
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