-지만 and -는데
These endings help Korean express contrast and background information in a compact, highly common way.
Examples
KoreanTranslation
비싸지만 정말 좋아요。Bissajiman jeongmal joayo.
It is expensive, but it is really good.
지금 바쁜데 잠깐 이야기할 수 있어요？Jigeum bappeunde jamkkan iyagihal su isseoyo?
I am busy now, but can I talk for a moment?
날씨는 좋은데 사람이 많아요。Nalssineun joeunde sarami manayo.
The weather is nice, but there are many people.
Pattern
clause + 지만 / clause + 는데
How it works
These endings help Korean express contrast and background information in a compact, highly common way. This pattern typically appears as clause + 지만 / clause + 는데 and becomes easier when you meet it again in short, readable examples.
What to notice
- -지만 often marks clear contrast.
- -는데 can add background, mild contrast, or set up what comes next.
Why it matters
Link background, contrast, and descriptive detail more naturally.
Use in context
This is important because Korean often links clauses through endings rather than separate conjunction words.