Processing keyword: ~기는 [gineun] (But)
Korean Grammar Point: ~기는 [gineun] (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
| Part | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Verb/Adjective Stem | The base form without 다 |
| 기는 | Suffix indicating concession or contrast |
| Rest of Sentence | The contrasting statement |
| Example Breakdown: |
- 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
| Grammar Point | Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|
| ~지만 | Simply contrasts two clauses ("but") | 늦었지만 출발합시다. (It's late, but let's go.) |
| ~기는 하지만 | Emphasizes concession before contrasting | 춥기는 하지만 괜찮아요. (It's cold, but I'm okay.) |
| ~는데도 | Even though (unexpected result) | 먹는데도 배가 고파요. (Even though I eat, I'm hungry.) |
~기는 specifically emphasizes the first clause before introducing the contrast, often implying acknowledgment.
4. Examples in Context
Formal
- 이해를 하기는 합니다만 동의하지는 않습니다. I understand, but I do not agree.
- 그 책을 읽기는 했지만 내용이 기억나지 않습니다. I did read that book, but I don't remember the content.
Informal
- 가기는 갈 거야. 근데 늦을 거 같아. I'll go, but I might be late.
- 맛있기는 한데 너무 매워. It's tasty, but it's too spicy.
Written
- 그 영화가 재미있기는 하지만 기대 이하였습니다. The movie is interesting, but it was below expectations.
Spoken
- 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
- Overusing ~기는 without proper contrast.
- Incorrect: 먹기는 먹었어요. (I did eat.)
- Correct usage typically requires a contrasting clause: 먹기는 먹었어요, 하지만 아직 배고파요.
- 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
- How do you attach ~기는 to the verb 가다 (to go)?
- Answer: 가기는
- Translate to Korean: "It's expensive, but I will buy it."
- Answer: 비싸기는 하지만 살 거예요.
- 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.