What does ~아서/어서 mean?
~아서/어서 (-aseo/-eoseo) means: cause-result connector.
Order-fixed. The first clause causes the second; can't be swapped without breaking meaning.
How it's actually used
- 배가 고파서 라면을 끓였어요.
Baega gopaseo ramyeoneul kkeullyeosseoyo.
I was hungry, so I cooked ramen.
💡 Indicates that the first clause is the direct cause of the second. - 비가 와서 약속을 취소했어요.
Biga waseo yaksogeul chwisohaesseoyo.
It rained, so I canceled the appointment.
💡 Cause-and-effect relationship that cannot have its clauses reversed. - 늦잠을 자서 회사에 지각했어요.
Neutjameul jaseo hoesae jigakhaesseoyo.
I overslept, so I was late for work.
💡 Strict chronological order where the first action triggers the second.