Processing keyword: ~을지언정 [euljieonjeong] (Even though)

Korean Grammar Point: ~을지언정 [euljieonjeong] (Even though)

1. Introduction

Welcome to today's lesson on the Korean grammar point ~을지언정 (euljieonjeong), which translates to "even though" or "even if" in English. This expression is used to emphasize a strong contrast or concession between two clauses. By mastering this grammar point, you'll be able to express contrastive statements more effectively in Korean.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

Meaning

The grammar point ~을지언정 is used to express a strong concession or contrast, similar to saying "even though" or "even if" in English. It implies that although the first clause presents a significant condition or obstacle, the second clause will still occur or remain true.

Structure

The structure of ~을지언정 is as follows:

• Verb/Adjective stem + 을지언정

Formation Diagram

Type	Stem Ending	Addition
Consonant-ending verbs/adjectives	Remove 다 from the dictionary form	Add 을지언정
Vowel-ending verbs/adjectives	Remove 다, add ㄹ if final consonant is absent	Add 지언정

Examples:

• 먹다 (to eat) → 먹을지언정
• 빠르다 (to be fast) → 빠르ㄹ지언정

Visual Aid: Formation

[Verb/Adjective Stem] + 을/ㄹ지언정

3. Comparative Analysis

~을지언정 vs ~지만

• ~을지언정 is used for strong contrasts or concessions, often in more formal or literary contexts.
• ~지만 simply means "but" or "however" and is used for general contrasts. Example Comparison:
• ~을지언정: 가난할지언정 정직하게 살겠다.
  • Even though I may be poor, I will live honestly.
• ~지만: 가난하지만 행복하다.
  • I am poor, but I am happy.

4. Examples in Context

1. Formal Written Context

• 그는 실패할지언정 포기하지 않을 것이다.
  • Even if he fails, he will not give up.

2. Spoken Informal Context

• 힘들지언정 시도는 해봐야지.
  • Even though it's hard, we should at least try.

3. Expressing Personal Determination

• 나는 혼자 갈지언정 꼭 갈 거야.
  • Even if I have to go alone, I will definitely go.

4. Hypothetical Situations

• 죽을지언정 비밀은 지키겠다.
  • Even if I die, I will keep the secret.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, expressions like ~을지언정 are often used to convey strong will, determination, or moral stance. It reflects the value placed on perseverance and integrity.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 망할지언정 끝까지 싸우겠다.
  • Even if I go bankrupt, I will fight till the end.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Using ~지만 instead of ~을지언정 for strong concessions.
  • Incorrect: 실패하지만 포기하지 않는다.
  • Correct: 실패할지언정 포기하지 않는다.
• Mistake: Improper conjugation with vowel-ending stems.
  • Incorrect: 가다 → 가을지언정
  • Correct: 가다 → 갈지언정

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of 을지언정 as emphasizing "even if this extreme case happens."
• Tip: Remember that ~을지언정 is more formal and emphatic than ~지만.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~을지언정 is used to express strong concessions or contrasts.
• It translates to "even though" or "even if."
• It is formed by adding 을지언정 to the verb or adjective stem.
• More formal and emphatic than other contrastive particles like ~지만.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you attach ~을지언정 to the verb 먹다?
   • Answer: 먹을지언정
2. What is the English meaning of 죽을지언정 비밀은 지키겠다?
   • Answer: Even if I die, I will keep the secret.
3. Which is more formal and emphatic: ~을지언정 or ~지만?
   • Answer: ~을지언정

Additional Practice

Try creating sentences using ~을지언정 with the following verbs/adjectives:

• 공부하다 (to study)
• 어렵다 (to be difficult)
• 사랑하다 (to love)

Example:

• 공부할지언정 포기하지 않겠다.
  • Even if I have to study hard, I won't give up.

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