(으)세요 VS 어/아 주세요

Many Korean learners struggle with the difference between '(으)세요' and '어/아 주세요', 

Both forms sound polite and are often translated as 'please~' in English.

However, they are used in different situations. 

Let’s break them down clearly with explanations and examples! 

1. (으)세요

- '(으)세요' is used to give polite instructions, commands, or suggestions.

- '(으)세요' is often used by people in authority when addressing others politely.

- '(으)세요' does not necessarily mean that the speaker needs the action to be done.

- '(으)세요' is more of a general instruction or polite direction.

< Examples > 

- 책을 읽으세요.   Please read the book.  (A general polite instruction)

- 조용히 하세요.   Please be quiet.  (A polite command)

- 이쪽으로 오세요.   Please come this way.  (A polite suggestion)

- 문을 닫으세요.   Please close the door.  (A polite direction)

< Tip > 

Please think of '(으)세요' as a polite way to tell someone what to do, 

without necessarily asking for a favor.

2. 어/아 주세요

- '어/아 주세요' is used when asking someone to do something for you.

- '어/아 주세요' expresses that you personally need or benefit from the action.

- '어/아 주세요' sounds more considerate because it is a request rather than a command.

< Examples >

- 책을 읽어 주세요.   Please read the book.  (Requesting a favor)

- 조용히 해 주세요.   Please be quiet   (Asking for cooperation)

- 이쪽으로 와 주세요.   Please come this way.  (Requesting movement)

- 문을 닫아 주세요.   Please close the door. (A favor for the speaker)

< Tip > 

Please think of '어/아 주세요' as a way to politely request or ask someone for a favor.

[Why does my Korean teacher use '어 주세요' when giving general instructions during class?]

In modern Korean, '어 주세요' is often preferred over '으세요' 

because '어 주세요' sounds softer and more considerate. 

Especially, in education and service industries, '어 주세요' is used more often than '으세요.' 

For example, many teachers say '숙제를 해 주세요' instead of '숙제를 하세요' 

to avoid sounding too firm or commanding. 

However, '으세요' is not always strict or commanding, 

so it is important to choose the appropriate expression depending on the context. 

Additionally, '으세요' is still polite and commonly used in public announcements and formal settings.

If you have any additional questions, feel free to ask in the comments!😊