Processing keyword: ~는데도 [neundedo] (Even though, but still)
Korean Grammar Point: ~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:
- Action Verbs: Attach ~는데도 to the verb stem.
- Descriptive Verbs (Adjectives):
- If the stem ends in a vowel, attach ~ㄴ데도.
- If the stem ends in a consonant, attach ~은데도.
- Nouns with '이다' (to be): Attach ~인데도 directly to the noun.
Formation Diagram
| Word Type | Stem Ending | Attachment | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Verb | Any | ~는데도 | 먹다 → 먹는데도 |
| Descriptive Verb | Vowel (ㄹ is dropped) | ~ㄴ데도 | 크다 → 큰데도 |
| Consonant | ~은데도 | 작다 → 작은데도 | |
| Noun + 이다 | Noun | ~인데도 | 친구 → 친구인데도 |
Examples
- Action Verb
- Verb: 가다 (to go)
- Sentence: 비가 오는데도 학교에 갑니다.
- Translation: Even though it's raining, I go to school.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Sentence: 그는 돈이 많은데도 검소합니다.
- Translation: Even though he has a lot of money, he is frugal.
Informal Context
- Sentence: 피곤한데도 운동하러 가?
- Translation: Are you going to exercise even though you're tired?
Written Context
- Sentence: 여러 번 실패했는데도 다시 도전했습니다.
- Translation: Despite failing many times, I tried again.
Spoken Context
- 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
- Incorrect Attachment
- Incorrect: 먹은데도
- Correct: 먹는데도 (Action verbs always use ~는데도)
- 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
- Question: How do you attach ~는데도 to the adjective 좋다 (to be good)?
- Answer: 좋은데도
- Question: Translate into Korean: "Even though I am busy, I will help."
- Answer: 바쁜데도 도와줄게요.
- 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!