Topic Particle 은/는
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
The topic particle 은/는 marks what you are talking about, setting the stage for the rest of your sentence.
- Use 은 after a consonant: 책은 (the book).
- Use 는 after a vowel: 나는 (I).
- It highlights the topic, not necessarily the subject.
Overview
The Korean particle 은/는 (eun/neun) is not a simple translation for a specific English word, but rather a topic marker. Its fundamental role is to introduce or highlight the central theme or focus of a sentence or a conversation. Think of it as a signpost that tells your listener, "This is what I'm talking about right now." This particle is crucial for organizing your thoughts and guiding the flow of information in Korean.
Korean is considered a topic-prominent language. This means that establishing the topic often takes precedence over simply identifying the grammatical subject. 은/는 serves as the primary tool for this function.
Understanding this distinction from English, which is more subject-prominent, is a foundational step for beginners.
When you use 은/는, you're signaling that the information you're about to share relates directly to the marked noun. This marked noun is often something already known, generally understood, or being presented in a comparative light. Mastering 은/는 is essential for clear, natural, and nuanced communication in Korean.
How This Grammar Works
은/는 to a noun is like saying, "As for [noun]..." or "Speaking of [noun]...". This grammatical structure immediately draws attention to the noun as the main point of discussion for the upcoming statement. It frames the noun as the context for the information that follows, allowing you to establish a subject for general comment, shift conversational focus, or emphasize a commonly accepted truth.은/는 does not always have to be the grammatical subject of the sentence. It can be an object, an adverbial phrase, or almost any element you wish to make the central theme. Its flexibility stems from its thematic function rather than a strict grammatical assignment.저는 학생이에요. (jeo-neun hak-saeng-i-e-yo., "I am a student."), 저 (I) is both the topic and the grammatical subject. However, in 커피는 제가 마셨어요. (keo-pi-neun je-ga ma-syeot-sseo-yo., "As for the coffee, I drank it."), 커피 (coffee) is the topic, but 저 (I) is the grammatical subject. This highlights 은/는's ability to direct focus without altering the noun's underlying grammatical role.은/는. It shows how Korean uses thematic structure to convey meaning, allowing for subtle shifts in emphasis that are vital for natural expression. By understanding this, you begin to grasp the inherent information hierarchy in Korean sentences.Formation Pattern
은 and 는 is determined by the final sound of the noun or pronoun it attaches to. This rule ensures smooth pronunciation and is consistent across all applications of the particle. Adhering to this phonetic rule is fundamental for sounding natural in Korean.
은 after a noun or pronoun ending in a consonant (받침, batchim).
는 after a noun or pronoun ending in a vowel (no batchim).
은/는. This simple rule is applied without exception.
은 | rice | 밥 | 밥은 | bap-eun | As for rice |
책 | 책은 | chaek-eun | As for the book |
한국 | 한국은 | han-guk-eun | As for Korea |
는 | I (informal) | 나 | 나는 | na-neun | As for me |
친구 | 친구는 | chin-gu-neun | As for the friend |
커피 | 커피는 | keo-pi-neun | As for coffee |
저 (formal 'I') ends in a vowel, so it becomes 저는 (jeo-neun). 나 (informal 'I') also ends in a vowel, becoming 나는 (na-neun), which often contracts to 난 (nan) in casual speech, such as 난 학생이야. ("I'm a student."). These contractions are common and help Korean sound more fluid.
When To Use It
은/는 serves several key functions in Korean, primarily centered around establishing context, making general statements, and highlighting distinctions. Understanding these uses is fundamental for building comprehensive sentences.- 1Introducing a General Topic or Making a First Mention (Context Setting):
은/는 to introduce a subject for the first time, establishing it as the main discussion point. This sets the stage for further comments or details about that topic. It's often used when you're starting a new conversational thread.저는 김민수입니다.(jeo-neun Kim Min-su-im-ni-da., "I am Kim Minsu.") Here, you introduce yourself as the topic.이것은 제 가방이에요.(i-geot-eun je ga-bang-i-e-yo., "This is my bag.") You're introducing "this" as the topic to describe it.제 취미는 독서예요.(je chwi-mi-neun dok-seo-ye-yo., "My hobby is reading.") Your hobby is introduced as the topic for definition.
- 1Making General Statements or Definitions (Universal Truths & Characteristics):
은/는 signals that the information presented applies generally to the topicalized noun, rather than a specific instance.고양이는 귀여워요.(go-yang-i-neun gwi-yeo-wo-yo., "Cats are cute.") This is a general observation about cats.사과는 맛있어요.(sa-gwa-neun ma-si-sseo-yo., "Apples are delicious.") A general statement of opinion about apples.지구는 둥글어요.(ji-gu-neun dung-geul-eo-yo., "The Earth is round.") A universal fact about the Earth.
- 1Highlighting Contrast or Comparison (Emphasis on Distinction):
은/는. It often implies a comparison or a subtle contrast, even if the 'other side' of the comparison is not explicitly stated. The particle draws attention to the topic in distinction to other potential topics or expectations.저는 커피는 안 마셔요.(jeo-neun keo-pi-neun an ma-syeo-yo., "As for coffee, I don't drink it.") This implies you might drink other beverages, but not coffee.오늘은 날씨가 좋지만 내일은 비가 올 거예요.(o-neul-eun nal-ssi-ga jot-ji-man nae-il-eun bi-ga ol geo-ye-yo., "Today the weather is good, but tomorrow it will rain.") This is a direct contrast between today's and tomorrow's weather.김치는 맵지만 비빔밥은 안 매워요.(kim-chi-neun maep-ji-man bi-bim-bap-eun an mae-wo-yo., "Kimchi is spicy, but bibimbap isn't spicy.") Here,은/는highlights the differing spice levels of the two dishes.
- 1Referring to Existing or Shared Information (Re-establishing a Topic):
은/는 can be used to re-establish it as the current subject of discussion. This reinforces that the topic is already 'on the table' and continues the conversation about it.- A:
민수 씨는 어디 있어요?(Min-su ssi-neun eo-di i-sseo-yo?, "Where is Minsu?")
민수 씨는 지금 회사에 있어요. (Min-su ssi-neun ji-geum hoe-sa-e i-sseo-yo., "Minsu is at the company now.") Minsu was established by the question and is confirmed as the topic for the answer.그 영화는 정말 재미있어요.(geu yeong-hwa-neun jeong-mal jae-mi-i-sseo-yo., "That movie is really interesting.") This assumes you both know which movie is being discussed.
- 1Topicalizing Non-Subjects (Objects, Adverbs, etc.):
은/는's function as a topic marker, independent of grammatical role, is its ability to attach to elements other than the subject. This includes direct objects, adverbs of time or place, and other sentence components, shifting the sentence's focus to that particular element.책은 읽었어요.(chaek-eun ilg-eot-sseo-yo., "As for the book, I read it.") Here,책(book), which is the grammatical object, is topicalized. The subject저/나is often omitted as it's implied.오늘은 학교에 안 가요.(o-neul-eun hak-gyo-e an ga-yo., "As for today, I'm not going to school.") The time adverb오늘(today) is topicalized, setting the temporal context for the action.한국 음식은 다 좋아해요.(han-guk eum-sik-eun da jo-a-hae-yo., "As for Korean food, I like it all.") The direct object한국 음식is topicalized, emphasizing that specific category of food.
When Not To Use It
은/는 is versatile, its misuse can make your Korean sound unnatural or convey unintended meanings. It's especially important for beginners to know when to avoid it, particularly in contrast with 이/가.- 1Identifying New, Specific Information (Requires
이/가):
이/가. Using 은/는 here would inappropriately imply a contrast or a general statement where none is intended, making the sentence awkward.- Q:
누가 왔어요?(nu-ga wa-sseo-yo?, "Who came?")
선생님이 왔어요. (seon-saeng-nim-i wa-sseo-yo., "The teacher came.") 선생님 is the new, specific information identifying who came. Using 선생님은 왔어요. would imply "The teacher came (but perhaps someone else didn't)", which isn't the neutral answer to a "who" question.- 1Subjects of Interrogative Words (Question Words):
누구? who?, 무엇? what?, 어느 것? which one?) functions as the grammatical subject of a sentence, it must be marked with 이/가. You are asking for an exhaustive identification of who or what fills that subject role, which is 이/가's function.무엇이 필요해요?(mu-eot-i pil-yo-hae-yo?, "What is needed?") Not무엇은 필요해요?누가 창문을 깼어요?(nu-ga chang-mun-eul kkaet-sseo-yo?, "Who broke the window?") Not누구는 창문을 깼어요?
- 1Subjects within Subordinate (Embedded) Clauses:
은/는 cannot mark the subject of a subordinate or embedded clause. These clauses modify nouns or function as part of a larger sentence, and their subjects require 이/가 (or to be omitted if context is perfectly clear).이/가 is necessary within these modifying structures.- Correct:
[제가 만든] 음식은 맛있어요.([je-ga man-deun] eum-sik-eun ma-si-sseo-yo., "The food [that I made] is delicious.")제is the subject of the embedded clause제가 만든. - Incorrect:
[저는 만든] 음식은 맛있어요.
- 1With Existential Verbs
있다(to be, to exist, to have) and없다(to not be, to not exist, to not have) (without explicit contrast):
있다 and 없다, 이/가 is the natural and default particle to mark the subject. While 은/는 can be used with these verbs, it specifically introduces a strong sense of contrast or comparison, or a general statement. If there's no contrast intended, use 이/가.시간이 없어요.(si-gan-i eop-seo-yo., "I don't have time.") This is a neutral statement of lack.강아지가 있어요.(gang-a-ji-ga i-sseo-yo., "There is a puppy / I have a puppy.") A neutral statement of existence or possession.- Compare with contrast:
돈은 있지만 시간은 없어요.(don-eun it-ji-man si-gan-eun eop-seo-yo., "I have money, but I don't have time.") Here,은/는is correctly used for the explicit contrast between money and time.
Common Mistakes
은/는 will help you avoid these pitfalls and progress more quickly. These errors often arise from applying English grammatical logic to Korean.- 1Overusing
은/는as a Universal Subject Marker:
은/는 as the Korean equivalent of "the" or a general subject marker. Remember, 은/는 marks the topic, which often implies a contrast or a general statement. If you use 은/는 when 이/가 is more appropriate, your sentences can sound stiff, formal, or convey an unintended contrasting nuance.- Incorrect:
어제는 친구는 만났어요.(eo-je-neun chin-gu-neun man-na-sseo-yo.) This awkwardly topicalizes both어제and친구in a contrasting way. - Correct:
어제 친구를 만났어요.(eo-je chin-gu-reul man-na-sseo-yo., "I met a friend yesterday.") This is a neutral statement;친구is simply the object of the verb.
- 1Confusing
은/는with이/가for New Information/Identification:
이/가 is the correct choice. Using 은/는 in such a context would incorrectly suggest a contrast or that the information is already known.- Incorrect:
창문은 깨졌어요.(chang-mun-eun kkae-jyeo-sseo-yo.) This sounds like you're contrasting the window with something else that didn't break. You're likely just reporting a new event. - Correct:
창문이 깨졌어요.(chang-mun-i kkae-jyeo-sseo., "The window broke.") This simply states a new event, identifying the subject of the action.
- 1Incorrect
BatchimApplication:
은 and 는 due to the preceding word's final sound is a frequent error, especially in rapid speech. Always take a moment to confirm whether the noun ends in a consonant (use 은) or a vowel (use 는).- Incorrect:
나은 학생이에요.(na-eun hak-saeng-i-e-yo.) (Incorrectly using은after the vowel나.) - Correct:
나는 학생이에요.(na-neun hak-saeng-i-e-yo., "I am a student.") - Incorrect:
밥는 맛있어요.(bap-neun ma-si-sseo-yo.) (Incorrectly using는after the consonant밥.) - Correct:
밥은 맛있어요.(bap-eun ma-si-sseo-yo., "Rice is delicious.")
Common Collocations
은/는 to form natural Korean expressions. Learning these common pairings helps you internalize the particle's usage and allows you to communicate more fluently. These aren't rigid rules but rather strong tendencies in everyday speech.- Personal Pronouns:
저는(jeo-neun) /나는(na-neun): "I + topic particle" (formal/informal).나는often contracts to난(nan) in casual contexts, e.g.,난 몰라.(nan mol-la., "I don't know.")당신은(dang-sin-eun): "You + topic particle" (often used carefully, not always a direct "you").
- Demonstrative Pronouns:
이것은(i-geot-eun) /이건(i-geon): "This + topic particle".이건is a very common spoken contraction, e.g.,이건 제 핸드폰이에요.(i-geon je haen-deu-pon-i-e-yo., "This is my phone.")그것은(geu-geot-eun) /그건(geu-geon): "That + topic particle" (for something near the listener or previously mentioned), e.g.,그건 아니에요.(geu-geon a-ni-e-yo., "That's not it.")저것은(jeo-geot-eun) /저건(jeo-geon): "That + topic particle" (for something far from both speaker and listener).
- Time Adverbs: These are extremely common for setting the temporal topic of a sentence.
오늘은(o-neul-eun): "As for today", e.g.,오늘은 날씨가 좋아요.(o-neul-eun nal-ssi-ga jo-a-yo., "Today, the weather is good.")내일은(nae-il-eun): "As for tomorrow"주말은(ju-mal-eun): "As for the weekend"
- Adverbs/Phrases Introducing Opinion or Fact:
사실은(sa-sil-eun): "Actually; as for the truth". Often introduces clarification or a surprising fact, e.g.,사실은 제가 어제 못 갔어요.(sa-sil-eun je-ga eo-je mot ga-sseo-yo., "Actually, I couldn't go yesterday.")개인적으로는(gae-in-jeok-eu-ro-neun): "Personally speaking; as for my personal opinion". Used to introduce a personal viewpoint.
- Generalizing Phrases:
보통은(bo-tong-eun): "Usually; as a general matter". Sets a general habit or usual condition as the topic, e.g.,보통은 아침에 커피를 마셔요.(bo-tong-eun a-chim-e keo-pi-reul ma-syeo-yo., "Usually, I drink coffee in the morning.")대부분은(dae-bu-bun-eun): "Mostly; for the most part".
Contrast With Similar Patterns
은/는 from 이/가 is the most crucial and often challenging distinction for Korean learners. While both attach to nouns and can sometimes seem to mark a subject, their underlying functions are fundamentally different and dictate the meaning and nuance of your sentences. Grasping this contrast is paramount for natural Korean communication.은/는 (Topic Particle) vs. 이/가 (Subject Particle)은/는 (Topic Particle) | 이/가 (Subject Particle) |있다/없다) | Used to introduce contrast: 돈은 있어요. ("I have money (but not other things)"). | Default for simple existence/possession: 돈이 있어요. ("I have money"). |은/는 vs. 이/가:- 1General vs. Specific / Known vs. New Information:
은/는for a general truth:한국 음식은 맛있어요.(han-guk eum-sik-eun ma-si-sseo-yo., "Korean food is delicious.") This is a general statement about Korean food as a category.이/가for new, specific information:이 음식이 맛있어요.(i eum-sik-i ma-si-sseo-yo., "This food is delicious.") You're identifying a specific dish that is delicious, perhaps one you just tasted.
- 1Contrast vs. Exhaustive Identification:
은/는for contrast:저는 한국어를 공부해요. 일본어는 안 해요.(jeo-neun han-guk-eo-reul gong-bu-hae-yo. il-bon-eo-neun an hae-yo., "I study Korean. As for Japanese, I don't.") The는clearly contrasts your study of Korean with the non-study of Japanese.이/가for exhaustive identification: A:누가 학생이에요?(nu-ga hak-saeng-i-e-yo?, "Who is the student?") B:제가 학생이에요.(je-ga hak-saeng-i-e-yo., "I am the student.") This emphasizes that only I am the student, identifying the unique person.
- 1Topic of Discussion vs. Grammatical Subject:
은/는can mark the topic, which may not be the grammatical subject:커피는 제가 마셨어요.(keo-pi-neun je-ga ma-syeot-sseo-yo., "As for the coffee, I drank it.")커피is the topic, but저is the grammatical subject.이/가strictly marks the grammatical subject:제가 커피를 마셨어요.(je-ga keo-pi-reul ma-syeot-sseo-yo., "I drank the coffee.") Here,저is the subject.
은/는 (Topic Particle) vs. 을/를 (Object Particle)은/는 and 을/를 attach to nouns, their functions are entirely distinct. Confusing them means confusing thematic focus with grammatical function. 을/를 specifically marks the direct object of a transitive verb, indicating the receiver of an action.은/는, even when attached to an object, primarily marks it as the sentence's topic, adding nuance of contrast or generalization.저는 밥을 먹어요.(jeo-neun bap-eul meok-eo-yo., "I eat rice.")밥is the neutral direct object of먹다(to eat).밥은 먹어요.(bap-eun meok-eo-yo., "As for rice, I eat it.")밥is topicalized, perhaps implying "I eat rice (but not other things)" or "Speaking of rice, that's what I eat." The subject is usually omitted as understood.
Quick FAQ
은/는.은/는 always be translated as "as for" or "speaking of"?While these translations effectively capture the essence of 은/는's topical function, they don't always sound natural or necessary in English. The nuance is often subtle and understood from context. It's more accurate to think of 은/는 as a topic indicator that guides the listener's attention, rather than seeking a direct, one-to-one translation.
은/는 completely?Korean is a highly contextual language. Native speakers frequently omit particles and even entire sentence components (like the topic or subject) when the meaning is unambiguous from the situation or previous conversation. For instance, if you're holding a cup of tea and someone asks about it, you might simply say 맛있어요 (ma-si-sseo-yo, "It's delicious") with 차는 (cha-neun) or 이것은 (i-geot-eun) understood. For A1 learners, it is generally advisable to use particles until you develop a strong intuition for when they can be safely omitted.
은/는 always mark the grammatical subject?No, this is a common misconception and a crucial point to understand. 은/는 marks the topic, which can and often does coincide with the grammatical subject (e.g., 저는 학생이에요. – "I am a student."). However, it can also topicalize the object (e.g., 커피는 좋아해요. – "As for coffee, I like it.") or an adverbial phrase (e.g., 오늘은 쉬는 날이에요. – "As for today, it's a day off."). Its role is thematic and contextual, not strictly limited to the grammatical subject.
은/는 be used in questions?Yes, 은/는 can be used in questions, especially when making a general inquiry about an established topic or implying a contrast. For example, 민수 씨는 어디에 있어요? (Min-su ssi-neun eo-di-e i-sseo-yo?, "As for Minsu, where is he?") This is a neutral question about an existing topic. However, if you are asking to identify who or what is performing an action (e.g., "Who came?"), then 이/가 is used with the interrogative pronoun (누가 왔어요?).
은/는 be used directly with verbs or adjectives?No. 은/는 is a particle that attaches to nouns, pronouns, or noun phrases. It cannot directly attach to a verb stem or an adjective stem. If you want to topicalize an action or state, you would first nominalize the verb or adjective (turn it into a noun phrase), then attach 은/는. You'll learn about nominalization at a later stage in your Korean studies.
은/는?For an A1 learner, the most important takeaway is to recognize 은/는 as a topic marker that introduces the general subject of your discussion, often implying a general statement or contrast. When you want to state a specific, new fact or identify who/what specifically did something, lean towards 이/가. This fundamental distinction is your biggest guide.
Topic Particle Attachment
| Noun Ending | Particle | Example | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Consonant
|
은
|
책 + 은 = 책은
|
The book
|
|
Vowel
|
는
|
나 + 는 = 나는
|
I
|
|
Consonant
|
은
|
학생 + 은 = 학생은
|
The student
|
|
Vowel
|
는
|
사과 + 는 = 사과는
|
The apple
|
|
Consonant
|
은
|
선생님 + 은 = 선생님은
|
The teacher
|
|
Vowel
|
는
|
어제 + 는 = 어제는
|
As for yesterday
|
Meanings
Used to indicate the topic of a sentence, distinguishing it from other information.
Topic introduction
Introducing the subject of the conversation.
“저는 김민수입니다.”
“이것은 사과입니다.”
Contrast
Contrasting one thing against another.
“사과는 좋아하지만 배는 싫어해요.”
“오늘은 바빠요.”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Affirmative
|
Noun + 은/는 + Comment
|
저는 학생입니다.
|
|
Negative
|
Noun + 은/는 + 아니에요
|
저는 학생이 아니에요.
|
|
Question
|
Noun + 은/는 + 무엇입니까?
|
이것은 무엇입니까?
|
|
Contrast
|
Noun + 은/는 + 하지만 + Noun + 은/는
|
사과는 좋아해요, 배는 싫어요.
|
|
Time
|
Time + 은/는 + Action
|
오늘은 공부해요.
|
|
Place
|
Place + 은/는 + Location
|
서울은 커요.
|
Formality Spectrum
저는 학생입니다. (Introduction)
저는 학생이에요. (Introduction)
나는 학생이야. (Introduction)
나 학생임. (Introduction)
Topic Particle Usage
Function
- 주제 Topic
- 대조 Contrast
Attachment
- 자음 Consonant + 은
- 모음 Vowel + 는
Examples by Level
저는 학생입니다.
I am a student.
이것은 책입니다.
This is a book.
날씨는 좋아요.
The weather is good.
이름은 민수예요.
The name is Minsu.
사과는 좋아하지만 배는 싫어해요.
I like apples, but I dislike pears.
오늘 점심은 비빔밥이에요.
Today's lunch is bibimbap.
한국어는 재미있어요.
Korean is fun.
그 사람은 선생님이에요.
That person is a teacher.
제 친구는 서울에 살아요.
My friend lives in Seoul.
이 영화는 정말 슬퍼요.
This movie is really sad.
어제는 바빴지만 오늘은 한가해요.
Yesterday I was busy, but today I am free.
커피는 안 마셔요.
I don't drink coffee.
그 제안은 고려해 볼 만해요.
That proposal is worth considering.
이 문제는 해결하기가 어려워요.
This problem is difficult to solve.
건강은 무엇보다 중요해요.
Health is more important than anything.
그의 의견은 존중해야 해요.
His opinion must be respected.
그의 행동은 이해할 수 없었어요.
His behavior was incomprehensible.
이 정책은 많은 비판을 받았어요.
This policy received much criticism.
성공은 노력의 결과입니다.
Success is the result of effort.
그녀는 예술에 재능이 있어요.
She has a talent for art.
언어는 문화의 거울입니다.
Language is the mirror of culture.
그 사건은 역사적인 의미가 큽니다.
That event has great historical significance.
인생은 짧고 예술은 깁니다.
Life is short, art is long.
그의 철학은 시대를 앞서갔어요.
His philosophy was ahead of its time.
Easily Confused
Both mark subjects/topics, leading to confusion.
Particles are often mixed up by beginners.
Location vs Topic.
Common Mistakes
나은
나는
책는
책은
저는 사과 먹어요
저는 사과를 먹어요
이것는
이것은
내가 학생은
나는 학생이에요
오늘이 날씨는 좋아요
오늘 날씨는 좋아요
누구는 갔어요?
누가 갔어요?
그는 사과를 좋아하지만 배는 좋아해요
그는 사과를 좋아하지만 배는 싫어해요
서울은 비가 와요
서울에 비가 와요
나는 가요
제가 가요
그의 의견은 틀려요
그의 의견은 달라요
성공은 노력이에요
성공은 노력의 결과예요
그녀는 아름다워요
그녀는 아름다운 사람이에요
이것은 제 책이 아니에요
이것은 제 책이 아니에요
Sentence Patterns
저는 ___입니다.
___은/는 맛있어요.
___은/는 ___지만, ___은/는 ___에요.
제 생각에 ___은/는 ___입니다.
Real World Usage
저는 김민수입니다.
저는 비빔밥은 먹을게요.
오늘 날씨는 정말 좋아요!
제 강점은 성실함입니다.
이곳은 아름다워요.
나는 지금 가.
Check the last letter
Don't over-use
Contrastive usage
Politeness
Smart Tips
Always use 저는 for formal introductions.
Use 은/는 on both items.
Use 은/는 to set the topic.
Use 은/는 to set the topic of the question.
Pronunciation
Linking
If the next word starts with a vowel, the consonant of the particle might link.
Statement
저는 학생이에요 ↘
Falling intonation for facts.
Question
이것은 무엇입니까? ↗
Rising intonation for questions.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
은/는 is the 'Stage Manager'—it sets the stage for what we are talking about.
Visual Association
Imagine a spotlight shining on a person. The spotlight is the particle 은/는. Everything in the spotlight is the topic.
Rhyme
Consonant ends in 은, Vowel ends in 는, Use them both to keep the topic fun.
Story
Min-su is at a party. He walks in and says '저는 민수입니다' (I am Min-su). He then points to the food: '피자는 맛있어요' (The pizza is delicious). Finally, he contrasts the drinks: '커피는 뜨거워요, 하지만 주스는 차가워요' (Coffee is hot, but juice is cold).
Word Web
Challenge
Write 5 sentences about your day using 은/는 for every topic.
Cultural Notes
Used in all formal and informal settings to maintain social hierarchy.
Often uses different particles, but 은/는 remains standard.
Often drops particles entirely for speed.
The particle 은/는 has ancient roots in Korean, evolving from earlier demonstrative markers.
Conversation Starters
이름이 무엇입니까?
오늘 날씨는 어때요?
한국 음식은 좋아해요?
서울은 어떤 곳이에요?
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
저___ 학생입니다.
책___ 재미있어요.
Which is correct?
Find and fix the mistake:
책는 재미있어요.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
All words placed
Click words above to build the sentence
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Use: 오늘, 날씨, 좋다
Attach to: 학교
Score: /8
Practice Exercises
8 exercises저___ 학생입니다.
책___ 재미있어요.
Which is correct?
Find and fix the mistake:
책는 재미있어요.
학생 / 저는 / 입니다
Match: 나, 책, 사과, 선생님
Use: 오늘, 날씨, 좋다
Attach to: 학교
Score: /8
Practice Bank
13 exercises이것___ 뭐예요? (What is this?)
저___ 영어를 가르쳐요. (I teach English.)
물___ 무료예요. (Water is free.)
As for today, I am resting.
As for Korean food, I love it.
좋아요 / 는 / 커피 / 정말
학교에서는 / 핸드폰 / 안 / 써요
나는 좋아하는 음식는 김치예요.
형은 키가 크고, 나는 키는 작아요.
You want to say: 'I like coffee, but I don't like tea.'
Which of these is wrong?
Match:
Match:
Score: /13
FAQ (8)
To mark the topic of the sentence.
Consonant + 은, Vowel + 는.
No, sometimes it's omitted in casual speech.
No, use 이/가 for specific subjects.
Yes, very similar.
No, the particle remains the same.
People will understand, but it sounds unnatural.
No, it attaches to nouns.
Scaffolded Practice
1
2
3
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
は (wa)
The pronunciation and script are different.
El/La (article)
Spanish articles don't mark topics.
Das/Der/Die
German grammar is case-based.
C'est / Quant à
French is not a topic-prominent language.
Topic-comment structure
Chinese lacks the specific particle marker.
Nominal sentence structure
Arabic uses word order for topics.
Learning Path
Prerequisites
Continue With
Topic (은/는) vs Subject (이/가) Distinction
Overview Mastering the distinction between the Korean topic particle `은/는` (eun/neun) and the subject particle `이/가`...
Spotlight on Location: 에서는 (As for in...)
Overview Korean particle `에서는` is a compound particle formed by combining the locative particle `에서` (marking the p...
Methods & Roles: By means of (으로는/로는)
Overview The Korean compound particle `(으)로는` (`(eu)ro-neun`) serves as a crucial tool for refining context and makin...
Korean Particle `에게는/한테는` (For me..., To me...)
Overview The Korean particles `에게는` (e-ge-neun) and `한테는` (han-te-neun) represent a crucial intermediate-level gra...
Related Grammar Rules
The Formal 'And': Connecting Nouns (와/과)
Overview The Korean particle `와/과` (wa/gwa) functions as a formal conjunction, primarily connecting two nouns to conve...
The 'At' & 'To' Particle (에)
Overview In Korean grammar, particles (`조사`, jo-sa) are indispensable suffixes that attach to nouns, pronouns, and som...
Particle -조차: Not Even (Negative Extreme)
Overview Particle `-조차` (jocha) serves as a potent emphatic marker in Korean, exclusively conveying the sense of "not...
Let Alone / Far From (커녕)
Overview `커녕` (keonyeong) is a B2-level Korean particle primarily used to express a strong sense of negation, disappoi...
Particle 도 (Also/Too)
Overview Particle `도` (`do`) is a fundamental Korean additive particle, often translated as "also," "too," or "even." A...
