Processing keyword: ~는데도 [neundedo] (Even though, but still)

Korean Grammar Point: ~는데도 [neundedo] (Even though, but still)

Korean Grammar Lesson: ~는데도 [neundedo] (Even though, but still)

1. Introduction

In Korean, expressing contrast or unexpected outcomes is essential for nuanced communication. The grammar point ~는데도 [neundedo] allows speakers to indicate that an action occurs despite certain circumstances. This lesson will help you understand how to use ~는데도 to express "even though," "despite," or "in spite of" in various contexts.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning and Usage

~는데도 is used to highlight a contrast between two clauses, emphasizing that the result in the second clause occurs despite the situation described in the first clause.

• Meaning: "Even though...", "Despite...", "In spite of..."
• Purpose: To express an unexpected result or situation contrasting with the preceding clause.

Structure and Formation

Formation Rules

The attachment of ~는데도 varies based on the type of verb or adjective:

1. Action Verbs: Attach ~는데도 to the verb stem.
2. Descriptive Verbs (Adjectives):
   • If the stem ends in a vowel, attach ~ㄴ데도.
   • If the stem ends in a consonant, attach ~은데도.
3. Nouns with '이다' (to be): Attach ~인데도 directly to the noun.

Formation Diagram

Examples

1. Action Verb
   • Verb: 가다 (to go)
   • Sentence: 비가 오는데도 학교에 갑니다.
   • Translation: Even though it's raining, I go to school.
2. Descriptive Verb (Adjective) Ending with Vowel
   • Adjective: 어렵다 (to be difficult)
   • Stem: 어려우 → 어려운데도
   • Sentence: 일이 어려운데도 포기하지 않았어요.
   • Translation: Even though the work is difficult, I didn't give up.
3. Descriptive Verb (Adjective) Ending with Consonant
   • Adjective: 작다 (to be small)
   • Sentence: 집이 작은데도 행복해요.
   • Translation: Even though the house is small, I'm happy.
4. Noun + 이다
   • Noun: 학생 (student)
   • Sentence: 학생인데도 일을 합니다.
   • Translation: Even though I'm a student, I work.

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparing ~는데도 with ~지만

While both ~는데도 and ~지만 indicate contrast, they have different nuances.

~지만 (but)

• Usage: Simply contrasts two statements.
• Example: 날씨가 춥지만 나갑니다.
• Translation: It's cold, but I am going out.

~는데도 (even though)

• Usage: Emphasizes an unexpected result despite the situation.
• Example: 날씨가 추운데도 나갑니다.
• Translation: Even though it's cold, I am going out.

Key Difference

• ~지만: Neutral contrast.
• ~는데도: Highlights an unexpected or contradictory outcome.

4. Examples in Context

Formal Context

1. Sentence: 그는 돈이 많은데도 검소합니다.
   • Translation: Even though he has a lot of money, he is frugal.

Informal Context

2. Sentence: 피곤한데도 운동하러 가?
   • Translation: Are you going to exercise even though you're tired?

Written Context

3. Sentence: 여러 번 실패했는데도 다시 도전했습니다.
   • Translation: Despite failing many times, I tried again.

Spoken Context

4. Sentence: 늦었는데도 전화해줘서 고마워.
   • Translation: Thanks for calling even though it's late.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

Understanding and using ~는데도 correctly reflects a speaker's grasp of nuance in Korean, which is important in expressing humility or appreciation in social interactions.

Levels of Politeness

Politeness in Korean is often conveyed through verb endings. ~는데도 remains consistent, but the sentence's ending should match the appropriate politeness level.

• Formal Polite: 합니다, 합니다만
• Informal Polite: 해요, 하지만
• Casual: 해, 하지만

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Incorrect Attachment
   • Incorrect: 먹은데도
   • Correct: 먹는데도 (Action verbs always use ~는데도)
2. Using ~지만 Instead of ~는데도
   • Mixing up the nuances between simple contrast (~지만) and unexpected contrast (~는데도).

Tips for Avoidance

• Remember the Verb Type: Identify if the verb is action or descriptive.
• Mnemonic Device: For action verbs, always use ~는데도 regardless of the stem ending.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~는데도 is used to express an unexpected outcome despite the preceding situation.
• The attachment varies based on whether it's an action verb, descriptive verb, or noun.
• It differs from ~지만 by emphasizing unexpectedness.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Question: How do you attach ~는데도 to the adjective 좋다 (to be good)?
   • Answer: 좋은데도
2. Question: Translate into Korean: "Even though I am busy, I will help."
   • Answer: 바쁜데도 도와줄게요.
3. Question: What's the main difference between ~지만 and ~는데도?
   • Answer: ~지만 expresses a simple contrast, while ~는데도 emphasizes an unexpected result despite the preceding situation.

By mastering ~는데도, you can express complex contrasts and enrich your Korean communication. Practice by creating your own sentences, and soon it will become a natural part of your language skills!