Processing keyword: ~지만 [jiman] (But)

Korean Grammar Point: ~지만 [jiman] (But)

1. Introduction

In Korean, expressing contrast or opposition between two statements is essential for effective communication. The grammatical structure ~지만 is commonly used to connect two clauses that have contrasting meanings, much like the English conjunction "but". This lesson will delve into how to properly use ~지만, with clear explanations and examples to enhance your understanding.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning and Usage

The particle ~지만 is attached to the stem of a verb or adjective to mean "but" or "however". It indicates that the second clause contrasts with or is contrary to the first clause.

Structure and Formation

Formation Diagram

[Verb/Adjective Stem] + 지만 + [Contrasting Clause]

How to Form ~지만

1. Identify the Verb/Adjective Stem:
   • Remove -다 from the dictionary form to find the stem.
2. Attach 지만:
   • Add 지만 directly to the stem.
3. Add the Contrasting Clause:
   • Complete the sentence with the clause that contrasts with the first.

Examples

Dictionary Form	Stem	+ 지만	Meaning
가다 (to go)	가	가지만	go but
먹다 (to eat)	먹	먹지만	eat but
비싸다 (to be expensive)	비싸	비싸지만	is expensive but
좋다 (to be good)	좋	좋지만	is good but

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3. Comparative Analysis

Comparing ~지만 with Similar Grammar Points

~는데/은데

• Usage: Also used to contrast two clauses, but can provide background information or set up a situation.
• Example:
  • 비가 오는데 우산이 없어요.
    • It's raining, but I don't have an umbrella.

그러나 and 하지만

• Usage: Conjunctions meaning "however" or "but", used at the beginning of a sentence.
• Example:
  • 그는 학생입니다. 그러나 공부를 하지 않습니다.
    • He is a student. However, he doesn't study. Key Difference: ~지만 is attached directly to verbs/adjectives and used within a sentence, whereas 그러나 and 하지만 start a new sentence.

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4. Examples in Context

Formal Context

1. 오늘은 바쁘지만 내일은 시간이 있습니다.
   • I am busy today, but I have time tomorrow.
2. 이 음식은 맵지만 맛있습니다.
   • This food is spicy, but it's delicious.

Informal Context

1. 영화가 길었지만 재미있었어.
   • The movie was long, but it was interesting.
2. 돈이 없지만 행복해.
   • I don't have money, but I'm happy.

Written Context

1. 그 책은 어렵지만 유익하다.
   • That book is difficult, but informative.
2. 노력했지만 결과가 좋지 않았다.
   • I tried, but the results were not good.

Spoken Context

1. 피곤하지만 갈게요.
   • I'm tired, but I'll go.
2. 춥지만 창문을 열어도 돼요?
   • It's cold, but can I open the window?

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5. Cultural Notes

Politeness and Formality

• ~지만 is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal situations.
• Politeness is indicated by the verb endings in the second clause.
  • Formal polite: -습니다/ㅂ니다
  • Informal polite: -요
  • Informal casual: Plain form

Idiomatic Expressions Using ~지만

1. 보기에는 그렇지만...
   • It may look like that, but...
2. 생각해 보니 그렇지만...
   • Now that I think about it, but...

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Incorrect Tense Usage
   • Incorrect: 학교에 갔지만 날씨가 좋았어요.
   • Correct: 학교에 갔지만 날씨가 나빴어요.
   • Ensure the second clause contrasts appropriately with the first.
2. Misplacing 지만
   • Incorrect: 춥지만요 밖에 나갈 거예요.
   • Correct: 춥지만 밖에 나갈 거예요.
   • Do not add extra particles after 지만.

Learning Strategies

• Contrast Practice: Compare two opposite ideas to practice using ~지만.
  • Example: 한국어는 어렵지만 재미있어요.
• Association Technique: Relate 지만 to the English "but" to remember its use.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~지만 is used to connect two contrasting clauses, meaning "but".
• Attach 지만 directly to the verb or adjective stem of the first clause.
• The level of formality is determined by the endings of the verb in the second clause.
• ~지만 can be used in various contexts, both spoken and written, formal and informal.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Form a sentence: "I want to rest, but I'm busy." (Use 쉬다 for "to rest" and 바쁘다 for "to be busy") Answer: 쉬고 싶지만 바빠요.
2. Correct the mistake: 맛있지만 먹고 싶어요. Correction: 맛있지만 못 먹어요. (Assuming the intended meaning is "It's delicious, but I can't eat it.")
3. Translate to Korean: "It's expensive but necessary." Answer: 비싸지만 필요해요.

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By practicing and applying ~지만 in your sentences, you'll become more proficient in expressing contrasting ideas in Korean. Keep experimenting with different verbs and adjectives to enhance your fluency!

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