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

How to Form

1. Identify the stem of the verb or adjective:
   • Remove -다 from the dictionary form.
2. Determine if the stem ends with a consonant or a vowel.
3. 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

1. 그녀는 아프****면서도 출근했습니다.
   Even though she was sick, she still went to work.
2. 학생들은 바쁘****면서도 자원봉사 활동에 참여합니다.
   Even though the students are busy, they still participate in volunteer activities.

Informal Speech

1. 너는 알고 있****으면서도 왜 말 안 해?
   Even though you know, why aren't you saying anything?
2. 나는 무섭****면서도 그 영화를 보고 싶어.
   Even though I'm scared, I still want to watch that movie.

Written Language

1. 그는 실패를 예상하****면서도 도전을 멈추지 않았다.
   Even though he anticipated failure, he didn't stop challenging himself.
2. 인간은 죽음을 두려워하****면서도 위험을 감수한다.
   Humans fear death, but still take risks.

Spoken Language

1. 엄마는 힘들****면서도 미소를 지어요.
   Even though mom is tired, she still smiles.
2. 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

1. Incorrect Suffix Attachment
   • Wrong: 먹면서도 (after a consonant-ending stem)
   • Correct: 먹으면서도
2. Confusing Simultaneity with Sequential Actions
   • Using ~으면서도 for actions that don't occur at the same time.
   • Solution: Ensure both actions/states are simultaneous.
3. 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

1. Question: How do you attach ~으면서도 to the verb 읽다 (to read)?
   • Answer: 읽으면서도
2. Question: Translate to English:
   그는 돈이 많****으면서도 행복하지 않아요.
   • Answer: Even though he has a lot of money, he isn't happy.
3. 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!