Processing keyword: ~으면서도 [eumyeonseodo] (While, but still)
Korean Grammar Point: ~으면서도 [eumyeonseodo] (While, but still)
1. Introduction
In this lesson, we'll explore the Korean grammar point ~으면서도 (eumyeonseodo), which translates to "while, but still" in English. This grammar construct is used to express a contrast between two simultaneous actions or states of being. By understanding ~으면서도, you'll be able to articulate complex thoughts that highlight contradictions occurring at the same time.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
The suffix ~으면서도 is attached to the stem of a verb or adjective to indicate that even though the subject is performing an action or is in a certain state (A), they are simultaneously doing or being something contradictory (B).
- English Equivalent: "Even though...", "While..., but still...", "Despite..."
Structure
Formation Diagram
| Verb/Adjective Stem Ending | Suffix | Example Verb/Adj | Conjugated Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consonant | ~으면서도 | 먹다 (to eat) | 먹으면서도 |
| Vowel | ~면서도 | 가다 (to go) | 가면서도 |
How to Form
- Identify the stem of the verb or adjective:
- Remove -다 from the dictionary form.
- Determine if the stem ends with a consonant or a vowel.
- Attach the appropriate suffix:
- If the stem ends with a consonant, add ~으면서도.
- If the stem ends with a vowel, add ~면서도.
3. Comparative Analysis
Comparing ~으면서도 with ~지만 and ~는데도
- ~지만 (but)
- Connects two clauses to show contrast but doesn't necessarily imply simultaneity.
- Example: 공부했지만 시험에 떨어졌어요.
I studied, but I failed the exam.
- ~는데도 (even though)
- Similar to ~으면서도 but focuses more on an unexpected result rather than simultaneous contradiction.
- Example: 비가 오는데도 그들은 떠났어요.
Even though it was raining, they left.
- ~으면서도
- Emphasizes that two contrasting actions or states are happening at the same time.
- Example: 그는 웃으면서도 속으로 울고 있어요.
He is smiling, but still crying inside.
4. Examples in Context
Formal Speech
- 그녀는 아프****면서도 출근했습니다.
Even though she was sick, she still went to work. - 학생들은 바쁘****면서도 자원봉사 활동에 참여합니다.
Even though the students are busy, they still participate in volunteer activities.
Informal Speech
- 너는 알고 있****으면서도 왜 말 안 해?
Even though you know, why aren't you saying anything? - 나는 무섭****면서도 그 영화를 보고 싶어.
Even though I'm scared, I still want to watch that movie.
Written Language
- 그는 실패를 예상하****면서도 도전을 멈추지 않았다.
Even though he anticipated failure, he didn't stop challenging himself. - 인간은 죽음을 두려워하****면서도 위험을 감수한다.
Humans fear death, but still take risks.
Spoken Language
- 엄마는 힘들****면서도 미소를 지어요.
Even though mom is tired, she still smiles. - 친구는 바쁘****면서도 시간을 내 줬어.
Even though my friend was busy, they made time for me.
5. Cultural Notes
Politeness Levels
- ~으면서도 itself doesn't change with politeness levels.
- Adjust the verb endings to match the appropriate level of politeness.
- Formal: 합니다, 했습니다
- Informal: 해요, 했어요
- Casual: 해, 했다
Idiomatic Expressions
- 알면서도 모르는 척한다 (To pretend not to know even though one knows)
- Used when someone is feigning ignorance.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect Suffix Attachment
- Wrong: 먹면서도 (after a consonant-ending stem)
- Correct: 먹으면서도
- Confusing Simultaneity with Sequential Actions
- Using ~으면서도 for actions that don't occur at the same time.
- Solution: Ensure both actions/states are simultaneous.
- Mixing Up with Other Conjunctions
- Using ~지만 or ~는데도 when ~으면서도 is appropriate, and vice versa.
Tips
- Remember the Contrast: Use ~으면서도 when emphasizing that two opposite things are happening at once.
- Check the Verb Stem: Always double-check if the stem ends with a consonant or a vowel to attach the correct suffix.
- Practice with Adjectives: This grammar point works well with adjectives to describe contradictory states.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ~으면서도 is used to express a contrast between two simultaneous actions or states.
- Attach ~으면서도 to consonant-ending stems and ~면서도 to vowel-ending stems.
- It's different from ~지만 and ~는데도 as it emphasizes simultaneity.
Quick Recap Quiz
- Question: How do you attach ~으면서도 to the verb 읽다 (to read)?
- Answer: 읽으면서도
- Question: Translate to English:
그는 돈이 많****으면서도 행복하지 않아요.- Answer: Even though he has a lot of money, he isn't happy.
- Question: What's the main difference between ~으면서도 and ~지만?
- Answer: ~으면서도 implies simultaneity of contrasting actions or states, while ~지만 connects two contrasting clauses sequentially.
By mastering ~으면서도, you can express nuanced thoughts about simultaneous and contrasting situations in Korean. Keep practicing with different verbs and adjectives to become more comfortable with this grammar point!