JC: Postposition_conjunctive (접속 조사)

Definition

JC refers to a conjunctive postposition that connects words or phrases within a sentence. It establishes a logical relationship between elements, such as coordination or alternatives.

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Characteristics

• Since JC is a postposition, it cannot stand alone; it must be attached to preceding words.
• JC links words or phrases to indicate conjunctions, expressing meanings such as coordination (e.g., ‘와/과,’ ‘하고’) and alternatives (e.g., ‘(이)나’).
• Examples:
  • 저는 휴대폰과 카메라는 사고 싶어요.
  • 서울에 식당하고 커피숍이 많습니다.

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Boundary cases and clarifications

Special cases

• Distinction between JC and JX(Postposition_auxiliary, 보조사):
  • ‘(이)나’ can function as both JC and JX. Since both share the same form and belong to the category of postpositions, they must be distinguished based on their role in the sentence.
  • When ‘이나’ functions as JC, it connects two words or phrases. However, when used as JX, it emphasizes the preceding word.
    • JC: 시간이 있으면 신문이나 뉴스를 봅니다.
    • JX: 세 시간이나 지나서 공연이 끝났어요.

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Examples

• 저와 친구는 명동에서 만나기로 했습니다.
• 저는 친구하고 동생하고 공원에 갔어요.
• 신발 가게하고 옷가게 하고 화장품 가게도 있습니다.
• 초밥이랑 돈까스 중 어떤 음식이 더 좋으세요?
• 노래 부르는 것이나 그림 그리는 것을 좋아합니다.