만 means "only" or "just," limiting focus to one thing.
Only/just — Restricting to one item
As little as — Emphasizing small amount
If only — With -(으)면 for wishes
만 replaces 은/는, 이/가, 을/를, but combines with 에, 에서, 에게.
See examples below for varied real-world usage.
Replaces case markers — Don't stack with 이/가, 을/를
- ✅ 나**만** 알아요
- ❌ 나**만이** 알아요 (sounds archaic/literary)
Combines with location particles
- ✅ 집**에만** 있어요 (I'm only at home)
- ✅ 학교**에서만** 공부해요 (I only study at school)
만 vs 밖에 — 만 is neutral, 밖에 + negative emphasizes limitation
- 물**만** 마셔요 (I only drink water - neutral)
- 물**밖에** 안 마셔요 (I drink nothing but water - emphasis)
I trust only you.
I'll rest just today.
Just one more time.
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