Processing keyword: ~기는 [gineun] (But)

Korean Grammar Point: ~기는 [gineun] (But)

Understanding the Korean Grammar Point: ~기는 (But)

1. Introduction

In Korean, expressing contrast or concession is essential for nuanced communication. The grammar point ~기는 (gineun) is used to acknowledge a certain fact before presenting a contrasting statement, similar to "but" or "though" in English.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

The suffix ~기는 attaches to verbs or adjectives to highlight contrast or concession between two clauses. It acknowledges the content of the first clause while introducing a contrasting second clause.

• Usage: "It is true that... but..."
• Function: Emphasizes the first action/state before contrasting it.

Structure

The general structure for using ~기는 is:

[Verb/Adjective stem] + 기는 + [Verb/Adjective]

Formation Diagram

• 먹다 (to eat)
  • Stem: 먹
  • Formation: 먹 + 기는 + 하지만 배가 고파요 (but I am hungry)
  • Full Sentence: 먹기는 먹었지만 배가 고파요.

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparing ~기는 with Similar Grammar Points

4. Examples in Context

Formal

1. 이해를 하기는 합니다만 동의하지는 않습니다. I understand, but I do not agree.
2. 그 책을 읽기는 했지만 내용이 기억나지 않습니다. I did read that book, but I don't remember the content.

Informal

1. 가기는 갈 거야. 근데 늦을 거 같아. I'll go, but I might be late.
2. 맛있기는 한데 너무 매워. It's tasty, but it's too spicy.

Written

1. 그 영화가 재미있기는 하지만 기대 이하였습니다. The movie is interesting, but it was below expectations.

Spoken

1. 알기는 아는데 설명하기 어려워요. I know, but it's hard to explain.

5. Cultural Notes

Politeness and Formality

• Using ~기는 can soften statements, making them sound more polite by acknowledging the other person's point before presenting a contrast.
• It's common in both formal and informal speech, but the level of politeness can be adjusted with verb endings.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 하기는 쉽지 않다: It's not easy to do.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Overusing ~기는 without proper contrast.
   • Incorrect: 먹기는 먹었어요. (I did eat.)
   • Correct usage typically requires a contrasting clause: 먹기는 먹었어요, 하지만 아직 배고파요.
2. Confusing ~기는 with ~지만.
   • ~지만 is a direct contrast, while ~기는 emphasizes the first clause before contrasting.

Tips

• Remember that ~기는 sets up for contrast; always follow it with a contrasting statement.
• Think of ~기는 as saying "It is true that..., but...".

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~기는 is used to express concession or contrast.
• It emphasizes the first clause before introducing the contrast.
• Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you attach ~기는 to the verb 가다 (to go)?
   • Answer: 가기는
2. Translate to Korean: "It's expensive, but I will buy it."
   • Answer: 비싸기는 하지만 살 거예요.
3. True or False: ~기는 and ~지만 can always be used interchangeably.
   • Answer: False

By understanding and practicing ~기는, you can add nuance to your Korean expressions, effectively conveying contrast and concession in your conversations.