Setting the Scene: Background Context (는데/은데)
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Use -는데/은데 to provide background information or set the scene before making a request, suggestion, or statement.
- Use -은데 after adjectives (e.g., 예쁜데).
- Use -는데 after verbs (e.g., 먹는데).
- Use -인데 after nouns (e.g., 학생인데).
Overview
The 는데/은데 (neun-de/eun-de) connective ending is a cornerstone of natural, nuanced Korean communication, fundamentally shaping how speakers provide context, set the background, or establish a preceding situation before introducing a main point. Unlike direct, explicit conjunctions that rigidly define a relationship (e.g., "because," "and," "but"), 는데/은데 offers a flexible, often indirect, connection between clauses. The first clause presents information that functions as the surrounding circumstances, a related observation, or a gentle precondition for the second clause.
This subtlety is vital for conveying politeness, implying shared understanding, and softening direct statements, questions, or requests, all of which are deeply embedded in Korean social interactions. Mastering 는데/은데 allows you to move beyond textbook Korean and engage in more sophisticated, indirect, and socially appropriate conversations, reflecting a core aspect of how native speakers structure their thoughts.
How This Grammar Works
는데/은데 attaches to the stem of verbs, adjectives, or the copula 이다 (i-da - to be). Its core linguistic function is to establish a background clause that serves as preparatory information for the subsequent main clause. The precise relationship between these two clauses is not explicitly stated by 는데/은데 itself but is inferred from context, tone, and the content of the clauses.비가 오는데 집에 갈까요? (bi-ga o-neun-de jib-e gal-kka-yo? - "It's raining, so shall we go home?"). Here, the rain (비가 오는데) is presented as the existing situation or background information that prompts the suggestion to go home (집에 갈까요?), rather than a direct, causal link.는데 makes the suggestion feel more natural and less abrupt. It frames the action within its immediate environment, allowing the listener to easily process the connection.는데/은데 is its ability to end a sentence, often paired with the honorific 요 (yo), forming 는데요/은데요. When a sentence concludes with 는데요/은데요, it is not grammatically incomplete but rather a polite and indirect way to imply that there is more the speaker wishes to convey, or that they are soliciting a response or reaction from the listener. This creates an expectation of continuation or interaction.저, 할 말이 있는데요... (jeo, hal mar-i it-neun-de-yo... - "Um, I have something to say...") signals that the speaker is about to make a request or reveal something, while subtly inviting the listener's attention and implicitly asking for permission to proceed. This indirectness is a crucial politeness strategy in Korean culture, enabling speakers to soften their intentions, avoid overly direct statements, and maintain harmonious social interactions.Formation Pattern
는데/은데 is determined by the type of predicate (action verb, descriptive verb/adjective, or copula) and its tense. Close attention to final consonants (받침, batchim) and irregular forms is essential for correct usage.
는데
있다 (it-da - to exist, to have) and 없다 (eop-da - to not exist, to not have), despite sometimes behaving like adjectives in other contexts, always follow the action verb rule with 는데.
는데 | 가다 (to go) | 가는데 | ga-neun-de |
는데 | 먹다 (to eat) | 먹는데 | meok-neun-de |
있다/없다 | Add 는데 | 있다 | 있는데 | it-neun-de |
없다 | 없는데 | eop-neun-de |
지금 책을 읽는데 전화가 와서 못 받았어요. (jigeum chaeg-eul il-neun-de jeonhwa-ga waseo mot bad-asseoyo. - "I was reading a book, and a call came so I couldn't answer.")
내일 제주도에 가는데 숙소 예약을 아직 못 했어요. (naeil jeju-do-e ga-neun-de suksu yeyag-eul ajik mot haesseoyo. - "I'm going to Jeju Island tomorrow, but I haven't booked accommodation yet.")
ㄴ데 or 은데 is used. This category also includes several irregular conjugations.
ㄴ데 | 크다 (to be big) | 큰데 | keun-de |
은데 | 작다 (to be small) | 작은데 | jag-eun-de |
ㄹ Irregular | Drop ㄹ + Add ㄴ데 | 길다 (to be long) | 긴데 | gin-de |
멀다 (to be far) | 먼데 | meon-de |
ㅂ Irregular | Change ㅂ to 우/오 + Add ㄴ데 | 춥다 (to be cold) | 추운데 | chu-un-de |
돕다 (to help) | 도운데 | do-un-de |
이 신발은 편한데 디자인이 좀 아쉬워요. (i sin-bal-eun pyeon-han-de di-ja-in-i jom aswiwoyo. - "These shoes are comfortable, but the design is a bit disappointing.")
날씨가 더운데 시원한 거 마실래요? (nal-ssi-ga deo-un-de si-won-han geo masil-laeyo? - "The weather is hot, so would you like to drink something cold?")
이다 (i-da - to be): Use 인데 (Present Tense)
이다, attach 인데. This applies irrespective of whether the noun ends in a vowel or a consonant.
인데 | 학생 (student) | 학생인데 | haksaeng-in-de |
인데 | 의사 (doctor) | 의사인데 | ui-sa-in-de |
저는 한국 사람인데 영어를 가르치고 있어요. (jeoneun han-guk saram-in-de yeong-eo-reul gareuchigo isseoyo. - "I am Korean, and I am teaching English.")
오늘은 제 생일인데 같이 저녁 먹어요! (oneul-eun je saeng-il-in-de gachi jeonyeok meogeoyo! - "Today is my birthday, so let's eat dinner together!")
았/었/했는데
-았-/었-/했-) and then simply append 는데. This effectively unifies the rule, as the 는데/은데 distinction is resolved by the 았/었/했 marker itself.
는데 | 갔다 (went) | 갔는데 | gat-neun-de |
먹었다 (ate) | 먹었는데 | meog-eot-neun-de |
는데 | 예뻤다 (was pretty) | 예뻤는데 | yeppeot-neun-de |
이다 | Past Tense Stem + 는데 | 학생이었다 (was a student) | 학생이었는데 | haksaeng-ieot-neun-de |
지난 주말에 친구를 만났는데 정말 반가웠어요. (jinan jumar-e chin-gu-reul man-nat-neun-de jeongmal ban-ga-wosseoyo. - "I met a friend last weekend, and it was really nice to see them.")
어릴 때는 키가 작았는데 지금은 커요. (eoril ttae-neun ki-ga jag-at-neun-de jigeum-eun keoyo. - "When I was young, I was short, but now I'm tall.")
-(으)ㄹ 것이다): Use -(으)ㄹ 건데
-(으)ㄹ 것이다 (-(eu)l geo-si-da - will/might do), the common contraction 건데 (geon-de) is used, which is derived from 것인데.
-(으)ㄹ 것이다 + 는데 | 갈 것이다 (will go) | 갈 건데 | gal geon-de |
먹을 것이다 (will eat) | 먹을 건데 | meog-eul geon-de |
내일 비가 올 건데 우산 가져가세요. (naeil bi-ga ol geon-de usan gajyeo-ga-se-yo. - "It's going to rain tomorrow, so take an umbrella.")
When To Use It
는데/은데 is exceptionally versatile, enabling a broad spectrum of communicative intents that revolve around providing context, setting expectations, or subtly connecting ideas. Its application is less about a rigid logical link and more about establishing a shared informational space between speaker and listener. This adaptability makes it indispensable for natural Korean discourse.지금 밖이 시끄러운데 문 좀 닫아주실래요?(jigeum bakk-i sikkeureoun-de mun jom dadajusillaeyo? - "It's noisy outside; could you close the door?") – The ambient noise is presented as the immediate context for the request.배가 고픈데 뭐 먹을까요?(baega gopeun-de mwo meogeul-kka-yo? - "I'm hungry, so what should we eat?") – The speaker's hunger serves as the background information for soliciting dining suggestions.한국 드라마 보는데 요즘 너무 재미있어요.(han-guk deurama bo-neun-de yojeum neomu jaemiisseoyo. - "I'm watching a Korean drama, and it's really interesting these days.") – The act of watching the drama sets the stage for the expression of enjoyment.
지만 (ji-man - but), 는데/은데 introduces a contrast or an unexpected piece of information in a softer, more conversational tone. It implies that "Clause 1 is true, and in light of that, Clause 2 is also true (perhaps unexpectedly)," or "Clause 1 is the case, but something slightly contrary or noteworthy follows."이 옷이 예쁜데 저한테는 너무 커요.(i ot-i yeppeun-de jeohante-neun neomu keoyo. - "These clothes are pretty, but they are too big for me.") – The prettiness is acknowledged, with the size being a gentle, qualifying counterpoint.한국말을 잘 하시는데 왜 더 배우고 싶으세요?(han-gungmal-eul jal hasi-neun-de wae deo bae-u-go sip-eu-se-yo? - "You speak Korean well, but why do you want to learn more?") – Expresses mild surprise or curiosity, questioning the motivation despite apparent proficiency.그 식당 음식이 맛있는데 서비스는 좀 별로였어요.(geu sikdang eum-sik-i masit-neun-de seobiseu-neun jom byeol-loyosseoyo. - "That restaurant's food was delicious, but the service was a bit poor.") – Highlights a positive aspect followed by a minor negative one, without harsh criticism.
는데/은데 is used, particularly at the end of a sentence with 요 (e.g., 인데요/는데요), it often conveys an observation, realization, or mild surprise that the speaker assumes the listener might share or acknowledge. It's frequently employed when noticing something novel, unexpected, or making an insightful comment.어? 벌써 5시 반인데!(eo? beolsseo da-seot-si ban-in-de! - "Oh? It's already 5:30!") – A sudden realization of the time, implying a need to act or a shared understanding of time passing.이거 제가 어제 찾던 책인데요.(igeo jega eoje chat-deon chaeg-in-de-yo. - "This is the book I was looking for yesterday!") – A soft exclamation of recognition or discovery.밖에 눈이 오고 있는데...(bakk-e nun-i o-go it-neun-de... - "It's snowing outside...") – Trailing off, indicating an observation and implicitly inviting a reaction, comment, or shared thought from the listener.
는데/은데(요) frequently serves as an indirect way to signal that the speaker has an unstated question, request, or intention and is waiting for the listener to prompt them or offer advice. It's a common politeness strategy, avoiding directness by opening a conversational channel.저 할 말이 있는데요.(jeo hal mal-i it-neun-de-yo. - "Um, I have something to tell you.") – Implies, "Can I tell you something?" or "Do you have a moment?" waiting for the listener to respond positively.제가 감기에 걸렸는데 혹시 좋은 약 알아요?(jega gamgi-e geollyeot-neun-de hok-si joh-eun yak a-ra-yo? - "I caught a cold; do you happen to know a good medicine?") – Stating a problem as background before subtly asking for a solution.이거 어떻게 고치죠? 제가 뭘 잘못했는데...(igeo eotteoke gochijyo? jega mwol jalmot-haet-neun-de... - "How do I fix this? I think I did something wrong...") – Seeking help or guidance after presenting a difficulty or error.
는데/은데 can soften the statement and invite the listener's input or reaction, making it less self-centered.저는 커피 마시고 싶은데, 지영 씨는 어때요?(jeoneun keopi masigo sip-eun-de, ji-yeong ssi-neun eottaeyo? - "I want to drink coffee, what about Jiyoung?") – Stating a preference while gently inviting the other person's opinion.이번 주말에 영화 볼 건데 같이 갈 사람?(i-beon ju-mar-e yeonghwa bol geon-de gachi gal saram? - "I'm going to watch a movie this weekend, anyone want to come?") – Announcing a plan and casually seeking companions.
Common Mistakes
는데/은데 due to its nuanced nature and distinct conjugation rules. Recognizing and addressing these common pitfalls is key to accurate and natural usage.는데 vs. 은데/ㄴ데 rule. Remember that action verbs (동사) always take 는데, regardless of batchim. Descriptive verbs/adjectives (형용사) are the ones that depend on batchim (ㄴ데 for no batchim, 은데 for batchim).- Incorrect:
저는 밥을 먹은데 친구를 만났어요.(joneun bab-eul meog-eun-de chin-gu-reul mannatseoyo.) - Correct:
저는 밥을 먹는데 친구를 만났어요.(joneun bab-eul meok-neun-de chin-gu-reul mannatseoyo. - "I was eating when I met a friend.") –먹다is an action verb, so it must be먹는데.
- Incorrect:
이 가방은 비싼데 디자인은 예뻐요.(i ga-bang-eun bis-san-de di-ja-in-eun yeppeoyo.) - Correct:
이 가방은 비싼데 디자인은 예뻐요.(i ga-bang-eun bis-san-de di-ja-in-eun yeppeoyo. - "This bag is expensive, but the design is pretty.") –비싸다is an adjective (no batchim), so비싼데is correct. This is a common example where learners might overcorrect if they mistakenly think adjectives always take은데.
ㄹ Irregular Adjectives:ㄹ (e.g., 길다 - to be long, 멀다 - to be far, 달다 - to be sweet) follow a specific irregular pattern. The ㄹ is dropped, and then ㄴ데 is added.- Incorrect:
이 길이 멀은데 지하철 탈까요?(i gil-i meor-eun-de ji-hacheol tal-kka-yo?) - Correct:
이 길이 먼데 지하철 탈까요?(i gil-i meon-de ji-hacheol tal-kka-yo? - "This road is far, shall we take the subway?")
는데/은데 for Strong Opposition (where 지만 is more appropriate):는데/은데 can imply a gentle contrast, it is not suitable for expressing strong, direct opposition. Using it in situations that demand a clear "but" can sound weak, unnatural, or as if you are merely stating two unrelated facts rather than drawing a sharp distinction.- Less natural:
저는 사과를 싫어하는데 동생은 사과를 좋아해요.(joneun sa-gwa-reul sir-eo-ha-neun-de dongsaeng-eun sa-gwa-reul joh-a-hae-yo.) – Sounds like a mild observation rather than a direct contrast in preference. - More natural:
저는 사과를 싫어하지만 동생은 사과를 좋아해요.(joneun sa-gwa-reul sir-eo-ha-ji-man dongsaeng-eun sa-gwa-reul joh-a-hae-yo. - "I dislike apples, but my younger sibling likes them.") –지만clearly highlights the direct opposition.
(으)니까 for Direct Reasons/Causes:는데/은데 provides background, whereas (으)니까 (-(eu)ni-kka - because/since) states a direct reason or cause, often leading to a command, suggestion, or conclusion. Swapping these can dilute the persuasive force of your statement.- Less effective:
지금 비가 오는데 우산 가져가세요.(jigeum bi-ga o-neun-de usan gajyeo-ga-se-yo.) – "It's raining (background), take an umbrella." This is a softer suggestion. - More effective:
지금 비가 오니까 우산 가져가세요.(jigeum bi-ga o-ni-kka usan gajyeo-ga-se-yo. - "Since it's raining, take an umbrella.") – This is a direct, stronger command or warning, where the rain is the explicit reason for the action.
는데/은데 without 요:는데/은데 without 요 in polite or even standard casual conversation can sound abrupt or incomplete. The 요 particle is crucial for softening the implication and inviting interaction when used at the sentence end.- Awkward:
제가 학생인데.(jega haksaeng-in-de.) - Better:
제가 학생인데요.(jega haksaeng-in-de-yo. - "I'm a student, you see...") – This makes the statement more polite and conversational, hinting at further explanation or interaction.
Real Conversations
는데/은데 permeates everyday Korean, from casual chats to more formal exchanges. Its adaptability makes it ideal for navigating various social contexts and expressing subtle intentions. Observe how native speakers integrate it to create natural flow and convey specific meanings.
1. Casual Conversation (Friends Texting)
A
주말에 뭐 할 거야? (ju-mar-e mwo hal geo-ya? - "What are you doing this weekend?")B
딱히 계획 없는데, 너는? (ttak-hi gye-hoek eop-neun-de, neo-neun? - "I don't really have plans, what about you?")A
나 영화 보러 갈 건데 같이 갈래? (na yeonghwa bo-reo gal geon-de gachi gal-lae? - "I'm going to see a movie, want to come with me?")- Observation: Here, 없는데 sets a mild, open background, implying availability or a lack of strong plans, inviting A's follow-up. 갈 건데 states B's plan while opening it up for A to join, softening the invitation.
2. Professional Context (Colleagues at Work)
A
김대리님, 회의록 다 작성하셨어요? (gim-dae-ri-nim, hoe-ui-rok da jak-seong-ha-syeosseoyo? - "Assistant Manager Kim, did you finish writing the meeting minutes?")B
네, 거의 다 했는데 마지막 검토만 남았어요. (ne, geo-ui da haet-neun-de maji-mak geom-to-man namasseoyo. - "Yes, I'm almost done, only the final review is left.")A
수고 많으셨네요. 급한 건 아닌데 오늘 퇴근 전까지 부탁드려요. (sugo man-eushyeot-ne-yo. geup-han geon a-nin-de oneul toe-geun jeon-kkaji bu-tak-deu-ryeo-yo. - "You worked hard. It's not urgent, but please submit it before leaving work today.")- Observation: 다 했는데 indicates a completed task with a remaining step. 급한 건 아닌데 presents a gentle contrast, acknowledging it's not urgent but still setting a deadline, making the request polite yet firm.
3. Social Situation (Asking for Help)
A
저기요, 죄송한데 길 좀 여쭤봐도 될까요? (jeo-gi-yo, joe-song-han-de gil jom yeo-jjeo-bwa-do doelkka-yo? - "Excuse me, I'm sorry, but may I ask for directions?")B
네, 말씀하세요. (ne, mal-sseum-ha-se-yo. - "Yes, please tell me.")A
이 근처에 병원이 있다고 들었는데 어디쯤인지 아세요? (i geun-cheo-e byeong-won-i ittago deul-eot-neun-de eo-di-jjeum-inji a-se-yo? - "I heard there's a hospital nearby, do you know where it is?")- Observation: 죄송한데 softens the interruption and sets a polite background for the question. 들었는데 provides the premise for asking for directions, indicating prior knowledge and seeking confirmation/details.
Quick FAQ
는데/은데.- Q: Can I use
는데/은데with-겠-(get-t - intention/conjecture)?
Yes, absolutely. It often expresses a presumption or intention as background. For example, 내일 비가 오겠는데 우산 가져가세요. (naeil bi-ga o-get-neun-de usan gajyeo-ga-se-yo. - "It looks like it'll rain tomorrow, so take an umbrella.")
- Q: Is there a difference between
는데/은데and-았/었/했는데for past tense?
The past tense form 았/었/했는데 is simply the conjugation of the past tense marker 았/었/했 followed by 는데. There isn't a separate grammar point. The rule for 는데 just applies after the past tense conjugation. For example, 어제 영화를 봤는데... (eoje yeonghwa-reul bwat-neun-de... - "I watched a movie yesterday...")
- Q: Can
는데/은데be used to introduce a reason like "because"?
It can imply a reason, but it's softer and more indirect than explicit causal conjunctions like (으)니까 or 아/어서. 는데/은데 presents the first clause as a situation from which the second clause naturally follows, but not necessarily as a direct cause. For example, 피곤한데 좀 쉴까요? (pigo-han-de jom swil-kka-yo? - "I'm tired, so shall we rest a bit?") – here, tiredness is the background for the suggestion, not a strong cause.
- Q: How does
는데/은데affect sentence politeness?
는데/은데 itself is a neutral connector. Its politeness level is determined by the sentence ending. When ending a sentence with 는데요/은데요, it adds a layer of politeness and indirectness, making it suitable for respectful communication, even with elders or superiors.
- Q: Is
는데/은데more common in spoken or written Korean?
It is extremely common in both spoken and informal written Korean (e.g., texting, social media). In very formal or academic writing, more explicit conjunctions might be preferred, but 는데/은데 is still widely used to create flow and connect ideas smoothly. Its omnipresence in conversation makes it a marker of natural fluency.
- Q: Can I combine
는데/은데with other grammar patterns?
Yes, it frequently combines with other patterns, especially at the end of the first clause. For example, -(으)려고 하는데 (-(eu)ryeo-go ha-neun-de - "I intend to do X, but/so...") to express an intention, or -(으)면 좋겠는데 (-(eu)myeon jo-get-neun-de - "It would be good if X, but/so...") to express a wish with a caveat.
Formation Table
| Category | Ending | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Verb
|
-는데
|
먹다 -> 먹는데
|
|
Adjective (Consonant)
|
-은데
|
작다 -> 작은데
|
|
Adjective (Vowel)
|
-ㄴ데
|
예쁘다 -> 예쁜데
|
|
Noun
|
-인데
|
학생 -> 학생인데
|
|
Past Tense
|
-었는데/았는데
|
갔다 -> 갔는데
|
|
Future Tense
|
-을 건데
|
할 것이다 -> 할 건데
|
Common Contractions
| Full Form | Short Form |
|---|---|
|
하는 데에
|
하는 데
|
|
할 것인데
|
할 건데
|
Meanings
This ending provides context, background, or a setup for the following clause. It softens requests and helps the listener understand the situation.
Background Setting
Providing context for a following statement.
“배가 고픈데, 뭐 먹을까요?”
“한국어 공부를 하는데, 어려워요.”
Softening Requests
Making a request sound less abrupt.
“저기요, 질문이 있는데...”
“도와줄 수 있는데?”
Contrast
Indicating a slight contrast (but/however).
“비가 오는데, 우산이 없어요.”
“열심히 공부했는데, 시험을 못 봤어요.”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Affirmative
|
Stem + 는데
|
가는데
|
|
Negative
|
안 + Stem + 는데
|
안 가는데
|
|
Question
|
Stem + 는데?
|
가는데?
|
|
Past
|
Stem + 었는데
|
갔는데
|
|
Noun
|
Noun + 인데
|
학생인데
|
|
Adjective
|
Stem + 은데
|
좋은데
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Formality Spectrum
질문이 있습니다. (Asking a question)
질문이 있는데... (Asking a question)
질문 있는데. (Asking a question)
질문 좀. (Asking a question)
Usage Map
Function
- Background Context
- Contrast But
- Softener Politeness
Examples by Level
날씨가 좋은데, 산책해요.
The weather is nice, let's take a walk.
배가 고픈데, 밥 먹어요.
I'm hungry, let's eat.
한국어 공부하는데, 재미있어요.
I'm studying Korean, it's fun.
이거 예쁜데, 살까요?
This is pretty, shall we buy it?
질문이 있는데, 물어봐도 돼요?
I have a question, may I ask?
어제 영화를 봤는데, 정말 슬펐어요.
I watched a movie yesterday, it was really sad.
지금 바쁜데, 나중에 전화할게요.
I'm busy now, I'll call you later.
여기는 조용한데, 공부하기 좋아요.
This place is quiet, it's good for studying.
열심히 준비했는데, 결과가 안 좋았어요.
I prepared hard, but the results weren't good.
친구가 한국에 왔는데, 어디를 구경할까요?
My friend came to Korea, where should we show them around?
비가 오는데, 우산 챙기세요.
It's raining, so please take an umbrella.
한국 음식을 좋아하는데, 매운 건 못 먹어요.
I like Korean food, but I can't eat spicy things.
회의 중인데, 잠시만 기다려 주시겠어요?
I'm in a meeting, could you wait a moment?
그분은 전문가인데, 의견을 물어보는 게 어때요?
He is an expert, why don't you ask for his opinion?
이미 다 끝냈는데, 더 할 일이 있나요?
I've already finished everything, is there more to do?
상황이 복잡한데, 천천히 생각해 봅시다.
The situation is complex, let's think about it slowly.
그 계획은 완벽해 보였는데, 실행 과정에서 문제가 생겼습니다.
The plan looked perfect, but problems arose during implementation.
오랜만에 고향에 왔는데, 많이 변했네요.
I've come to my hometown after a long time, it has changed a lot.
모두가 반대하는데, 왜 그렇게 고집을 부리나요?
Everyone is against it, why are you being so stubborn?
분명히 말했는데, 왜 아직도 안 했어요?
I clearly told you, why haven't you done it yet?
그 당시에는 최선이라고 생각했는데, 지금 돌이켜보면 아쉬움이 남습니다.
I thought it was the best at the time, but looking back, I have regrets.
사회적 합의가 필요한 사안인데, 정치권에서는 외면하고 있습니다.
It's a matter that requires social consensus, but politicians are ignoring it.
이론적으로는 가능한데, 현실적인 제약이 많습니다.
It's theoretically possible, but there are many practical constraints.
그는 천재적인 재능을 가졌는데, 정작 본인은 그것을 모르는 것 같습니다.
He has genius talent, but he himself seems unaware of it.
Easily Confused
Both can mean 'but'.
Both provide reasons.
Both provide reasons.
Common Mistakes
학생인데
학생인데
먹다는데
먹는데
예쁜는데
예쁜데
갔는데
갔는데
비가 오는데
비가 오는데
좋은데
좋은데
학생인데
학생인데
먹는데
먹는데
예쁜데
예쁜데
갔는데
갔는데
가는데
가는데
좋은데
좋은데
학생인데
학생인데
Sentence Patterns
___인데, ___?
___는데, ___.
___은데, ___.
___었는데, ___.
Real World Usage
지금 가는데, 조금 늦을 것 같아.
이거 맛있는데, 하나 더 주세요.
경험이 있는데, 이 일에 도움이 될 것입니다.
여기는 유명한데, 사람이 많아요.
오늘 날씨 좋은데, 산책하기 딱이야!
선생님, 질문이 있는데...
Softening
Don't over-use
Context is King
Politeness
Smart Tips
Always set the scene first.
Use -는데 to provide context.
Use -는데 for mild contrast.
Use -는데 to link events.
Pronunciation
Linking
The 'n' sound in -는데 often links to the next word.
Rising
질문이 있는데↗?
Used when asking a question or seeking confirmation.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of -는데 as a 'bridge' that connects your background info to your main point.
Visual Association
Imagine a bridge. On one side is the 'Context' (the background), and on the other side is the 'Action' (the main point). The bridge is labeled '는데'.
Rhyme
When you want to set the scene, use -는데 to be keen.
Story
You are at a party. You want to ask for a drink. You don't just say 'Give me water.' You say 'I am thirsty, could I have some water?' The 'I am thirsty' part is your -는데 bridge.
Word Web
Challenge
Write 3 sentences today using -는데 to explain why you are doing something.
Cultural Notes
Koreans use this to avoid being direct, which is a sign of politeness.
Derived from the noun-modifying form of verbs/adjectives.
Conversation Starters
오늘 날씨가 어떤데?
한국어 공부하는데, 어때?
지금 바쁜데, 나중에 전화할까?
이거 예쁜데, 살까?
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
날씨가 ___ (좋다). 산책할까요?
배가 ___ (고프다). 밥 먹어요.
Find and fix the mistake:
학생인데 질문 있어요. -> 학생인데 질문 있어요.
가다 + 는데
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
예쁘다 + 는데
먹다 + 는데
Nouns use -인데.
Score: /8
Practice Exercises
8 exercises날씨가 ___ (좋다). 산책할까요?
배가 ___ (고프다). 밥 먹어요.
Find and fix the mistake:
학생인데 질문 있어요. -> 학생인데 질문 있어요.
가다 + 는데
질문이 있는데...
예쁘다 + 는데
먹다 + 는데
Nouns use -인데.
Score: /8
Practice Bank
10 exercises좋아하는데 / 동생은 / 스포츠를 / 음악을 / 좋아해요 / 나는
It's cold, so please close the window. (추워요, 창문을 닫아 주세요)
Match the pairs:
A: 어디 가요? B: 시장에 ___ 뭐 사다 줄까요?
어제 그 드라마를 ___, 정말 재미있었어요.
날씨가 좋는데 산책 갈까요?
돈이 ___, 조금만 빌려줄 수 있어?
A: 이 옷 어때요? B: 예쁘기는 ___ 좀 비싸네요.
오세요 / 이리로 / 도서관인데 / 지금
I ate a lot, but I'm still hungry.
Score: /10
FAQ (8)
Yes, it works with all verbs.
It is neutral and used in most situations.
Use -지만 for direct contrast, -는데 for background.
Yes, it is common in emails and essays.
Use -었는데.
Yes, it is very common in casual speech.
It makes your Korean sound natural.
Yes, use -은데 or -ㄴ데.
Scaffolded Practice
1
2
3
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
node
Korean -는데 is more versatile as a softener.
mientras que
Korean -는데 is more about context than direct contrast.
wobei
Korean -는데 is used much more frequently.
alors que
Korean -는데 is broader.
de
Korean -는데 is a connective ending.
wa
Korean -는데 is more specific.
Learning Path
Prerequisites
Continue With
The Background Connector (는데/은데)
Overview The Korean connective ending `-(으)ㄴ/는데` (romanized as `-(eu)n/neunde`) is a fundamental and highly versatil...
The Social Buffer: ~는데/은데/ㄴ데 (But, And, So)
Overview Korean sentence connectors often carry nuanced social functions beyond their literal meaning. The connective en...
Even Though: Unexpected Results (-ㄴ/은/는데도)
Overview As a Korean learner, you've likely encountered situations where the outcome of an event defies logical expectat...
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Going to do... (-(으)러 가다/오다)
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Korean Result Grammar: So That & Until (-도록)
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Observing Changes & Results (-더니)
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