-지만 But / Although
Core meaning - But / Although
Form - Stem + 지만
Usage - Focus on the highlighted segment in each example; surrounding words can change while the pattern function stays the same.
Use this pattern for its grammatical function, not as a literal word-by-word translation.
See examples below for varied real-world usage.
-지만 vs -(으)ㄴ데
- 지만 = direct contrast "but"
- (으)ㄴ데 = softer, background info
Attaches to any verb/adjective stem
- 가지만, 먹지만, 예쁘지만
Past: -았/었지만
It is expensive but delicious.
I am tired but I have to go.
Korean is difficult but interesting.
I ate but I am still hungry.
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