~ 뿐만 아니라
~ 뿐만 아니라 in 30 Seconds
- Used to express 'not only A but also B', adding extra information to a sentence.
- Commonly used with nouns (Noun + 뿐만 아니라) and verbs/adjectives (-(으)ㄹ 뿐만 아니라).
- Requires the second clause to typically end with the particle '-도' (also/too).
- Appropriate for both formal writing and polite everyday conversation to sound more descriptive.
The grammatical construction ~ 뿐만 아니라 is a sophisticated yet essential tool in the Korean language used to express the concept of 'not only A, but also B.' It functions as a conjunctive structure that allows a speaker to add additional information to a primary statement, effectively emphasizing that the scope of a subject or action is broader than initially suggested. In Korean linguistic terms, it is a combination of the bound noun 뿐 (meaning 'only' or 'just'), the particle 만 (meaning 'only' or 'exclusively'), and the negative copula form 아니라 (from 아니다, meaning 'to not be'). Literally translated, it conveys the sense of 'it is not only just [Noun], but...' which leads the listener to expect a second, often more significant, piece of information in the following clause.
- Grammatical Function
- It serves as a connector between two nouns or two clauses to indicate that the first item is not the sole factor or example in a given context.
This expression is ubiquitous in both written and spoken Korean, though it carries a slightly more formal or structured tone compared to simpler additive particles like -도 (also) or 그리고 (and). You will encounter it frequently in news reports, academic essays, business presentations, and polite conversation. It is particularly useful when you want to build a persuasive argument or give a detailed description of someone's talents or the features of a product. For instance, when describing a smartphone, one might say it has a great camera 뿐만 아니라 a long battery life, suggesting that the phone is a complete package rather than just having one good feature.
한국어는 문법뿐만 아니라 단어도 어려워요. (Korean is not only difficult in grammar but also in vocabulary.)
The beauty of this expression lies in its ability to create balance in a sentence. It sets up a rhythmic expectation where the first noun establishes a baseline, and the second noun (usually followed by the particle -도) provides the 'bonus' information. This structure is vital for moving beyond simple sentences and developing a more natural, flowing Korean style. It shows that the speaker is capable of organizing thoughts logically and can categorize multiple attributes under a single theme.
In social contexts, using ~ 뿐만 아니라 can make your compliments sound more sincere and comprehensive. Instead of just saying someone is kind, saying they are kind 뿐만 아니라 intelligent elevates the praise. It demonstrates that you have observed multiple facets of their character. Similarly, in professional settings, it allows you to list multiple qualifications or benefits without sounding like you are just listing items in a grocery list; it creates a cohesive narrative of value.
- Register
- Neutral to Formal. It is highly appropriate for public speaking, writing, and polite social interactions.
Finally, it is important to note the emotional tone. Usually, ~ 뿐만 아니라 maintains consistency in the 'vibe' of the sentence. If the first part is positive, the second part should generally be positive as well. If you are complaining about something, both parts usually reflect that negativity. Mixing a very positive attribute with a very negative one using this structure can sometimes sound awkward or sarcastic unless intended for specific rhetorical effect.
Mastering the usage of ~ 뿐만 아니라 involves understanding its placement and the necessary grammatical 'partners' it requires. When used with nouns, the construction is straightforward: [Noun] + 뿐만 아니라. There is no need to worry about whether the noun ends in a consonant or a vowel; the form remains the same. However, the complexity arises in the second clause of the sentence, which must logically follow the 'addition' established by the first clause.
- Basic Structure
- [Noun A]뿐만 아니라 [Noun B]도 [Verb/Adjective].
The most critical rule for English speakers to remember is the inclusion of the particle -도 after the second noun. In English, we say 'Not only A but also B.' In Korean, the 'also' is represented by -도. Without this particle, the sentence feels incomplete, like a bridge that doesn't quite reach the other side. For example, '사과뿐만 아니라 바나나를 먹었어요' (I ate not only apples but bananas) sounds slightly off compared to '사과뿐만 아니라 바나나도 먹었어요.'
이 식당은 맛뿐만 아니라 서비스도 아주 좋아요. (This restaurant is not only tasty but the service is also very good.)
While the prompt focuses on the noun usage, it is helpful to know that when you want to connect verbs or adjectives, you use the form -(으)ㄹ 뿐만 아니라. For adjectives, you attach this to the stem. For example, 예쁠 뿐만 아니라 (not only pretty but...). This allows you to describe actions and states in the same additive way. However, for nouns, you simply attach it directly. If the noun is part of a 'Noun + 이다' (to be) structure, it becomes [Noun]일 뿐만 아니라.
Tense is another important consideration. Usually, the tense of the entire sentence is determined by the final verb at the end of the sentence. The ~ 뿐만 아니라 part remains in its base form. If you want to say 'I not only went to the park but also the mall' in the past tense, you would say '공원뿐만 아니라 백화점에도 갔어요.' The past tense 갔어요 at the end covers both locations mentioned earlier in the sentence.
- Negation Context
- When using negative sentences, the structure remains 'Not only [Negative A] but also [Negative B].' Example: '공부뿐만 아니라 운동도 안 해요' (I don't do not only studying but also exercise).
Another stylistic point is the use of '만'. While you can technically say '뿐 아니라', adding '만' (only) emphasizes the 'limited' nature of the first part, making the 'addition' of the second part feel more impactful. It creates a stronger contrast between the initial expectation and the full reality. In modern Korean, ~ 뿐만 아니라 is the standard version used in most contexts to ensure clarity and emphasis.
You will encounter ~ 뿐만 아니라 in a variety of real-world scenarios, ranging from the highly formal to the everyday polite. One of the most common places is in advertising and marketing. Companies use this expression to highlight multiple benefits of their products. A skincare brand might claim their lotion provides 'moisture 뿐만 아니라 whitening effects.' By using this structure, they position their product as a multi-functional solution, appealing to consumers looking for value and efficiency.
- Commercial Example
- 이 스마트폰은 디자인뿐만 아니라 성능도 최고입니다. (This smartphone is the best in not only design but also performance.)
In news broadcasting and journalism, this phrase is a staple. News anchors use it to link related events or to describe the far-reaching consequences of a policy or a natural disaster. For example, a reporter might say that a recent storm caused damage to 'buildings 뿐만 아니라 agricultural crops.' This helps the audience understand the full scale of the situation in a structured, professional manner. It is the language of reporting—objective, additive, and comprehensive.
그 영화배우는 연기뿐만 아니라 노래도 잘해요. (That movie actor is good at not only acting but also singing.)
In the workplace, during meetings or performance reviews, ~ 뿐만 아니라 is used to list achievements or skills. A manager might praise an employee by saying they have 'technical skills 뿐만 아니라 leadership qualities.' This level of professional Korean is essential for anyone looking to work in a Korean corporate environment, as it allows for the nuanced delivery of feedback and the clear articulation of complex ideas.
Finally, you will hear it in educational settings. Teachers use it to connect different concepts in a lesson, helping students see the relationship between topics. 'This math formula is used in physics 뿐만 아니라 chemistry too.' It serves as a mental bridge, encouraging learners to expand their focus. Whether you are listening to a TED-style talk in Korean (like 'Sebasi') or a university lecture, this grammar point will be a constant companion in your listening journey.
- Common Contexts
- Product descriptions, news reports, job interviews, academic lectures, and formal introductions.
While ~ 뿐만 아니라 is a very useful pattern, learners often fall into several predictable traps. The most frequent mistake is omitting the particle '-도' in the second clause. In English, we can sometimes say 'Not only A but B,' but in Korean, the 'also' (도) is almost grammatically mandatory to maintain the logic of addition. Without it, the sentence sounds like it was cut off mid-thought or lacks the necessary connective tissue to make the addition clear.
- The '-도' Mistake
- Incorrect: 한국어뿐만 아니라 영어를 공부해요. (Sounds incomplete)
Correct: 한국어뿐만 아니라 영어도 공부해요.
Another common error involves semantic mismatch. This occurs when the two things being compared are too different in nature or tone. For example, saying 'He is not only a genius but also ate a sandwich' sounds bizarre because the two clauses don't belong to the same category of description. Usually, the two items linked by ~ 뿐만 아니라 should share a common theme—traits, actions, objects, or locations. They should both support the same overarching point the speaker is making.
Incorrect: 그는 친절할 뿐만 아니라 어제 병원에 갔어요. (He is not only kind but went to the hospital yesterday. - No logical link.)
Learners also struggle with spacing and spelling. As mentioned before, when attaching to a noun, there should be no space: 친구뿐만 아니라. However, when using the verb form -(으)ㄹ 뿐만 아니라, there is typically a space after '뿐'. This inconsistency can be confusing. For nouns, remember that 뿐 acts almost like a particle in this specific construction, so it sticks to the noun it modifies.
Lastly, there is the overuse of the pattern. Because it feels 'advanced,' some students use it in every single sentence where they want to say 'and.' This can make your Korean sound overly stiff or robotic. In casual conversation with friends, using -도 하고 or simply 그리고 is often more natural. Reserve ~ 뿐만 아니라 for when you truly want to emphasize the 'not only' aspect or when you are in a more formal setting.
- Summary of Mistakes
- 1. Missing '-도'. 2. Mismatched themes. 3. Incorrect spacing (Noun + 뿐 vs Verb + 뿐). 4. Using it in too casual contexts.
Korean has several ways to express the idea of 'and' or 'also,' and choosing the right one depends on the level of emphasis and formality you desire. The most direct alternative to ~ 뿐만 아니라 is -은/는 물론이고. This expression means 'not to mention' or 'it goes without saying.' It is slightly more emphatic and implies that the first item is so obvious it barely needs mentioning, while the second item is even more noteworthy.
- Comparison: ~ 뿐만 아니라 vs. -은/는 물론이고
- 뿐만 아니라: Balanced addition. Both A and B are important.
은/는 물론이고: Emphasis on B. A is obvious, but B is also true.
Another common alternative is -(으)ㄴ/는 데다가. This is often translated as 'on top of' or 'in addition to.' While ~ 뿐만 아니라 focuses on the 'not only' logic, -(으)ㄴ/는 데다가 emphasizes the cumulative effect of multiple things happening or being true. It is very common in spoken Korean and feels slightly less formal than ~ 뿐만 아니라. Crucially, -(으)ㄴ/는 데다가 usually requires the two parts to have the same positive or negative 'charge' (e.g., two good things or two bad things).
날씨가 추운 데다가 비도 와요. (On top of the weather being cold, it's also raining.)
For a simpler, more conversational approach, Koreans often use the -기도 하고... -기도 하다 pattern. This translates to 'sometimes [Action A] and sometimes [Action B]' or 'It's both [Trait A] and [Trait B].' This is much more flexible and is the go-to choice for casual chats about daily life. It doesn't carry the same weight of 'not only' but covers the 'both' aspect effectively.
In summary, while ~ 뿐만 아니라 is a powerhouse for adding information, understanding these alternatives allows you to vary your speech and match the tone of your environment. Whether you want the academic weight of ~ 뿐만 아니라, the 'obviousness' of -은/는 물론이고, or the cumulative feel of -(으)ㄴ/는 데다가, you now have a full toolkit for expanding your Korean descriptions.
- Quick Reference
- - 뿐만 아니라: Not only... but also (Balanced)
- 은/는 물론이고: Needless to say... (Emphatic)
- 는 데다가: On top of... (Cumulative)
- 기도 하고: Both... and... (Casual)
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The word '뿐' originally meant 'only' or 'just' in Middle Korean and has remained a key part of restrictive grammar patterns for centuries.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing '뿐' as '분' (single 'b/p' sound). It must be tense 'pp'.
- Mixing up '아니라' with '아니요'.
- Putting too much emphasis on '만', making it sound choppy.
- Forgetting the liquid 'l/r' sound in '아니라'.
- Running '뿐만' together too fast without clear articulation of the 'n' and 'm'.
Difficulty Rating
Easy to recognize in text due to the distinct '뿐만' spelling.
Requires attention to spacing and the mandatory '-도' in the next clause.
Natural delivery requires practice to avoid sounding too stiff.
Very clear and easy to pick up in formal speech.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Noun + 뿐이다
내가 가진 것은 이것뿐이다.
V-(으)ㄹ 뿐이다
그냥 웃을 뿐이에요.
V-(으)ㄹ 뿐더러
그는 똑똑할 뿐더러 겸손하다.
-은/는 물론이고
사과는 물론이고 포도도 샀어요.
-(으)ㄴ/는 데다가
예쁜 데다가 친절해요.
Examples by Level
사과뿐만 아니라 바나나도 먹어요.
I eat not only apples but also bananas.
Simple noun addition with -도.
엄마뿐만 아니라 아빠도 오세요.
Not only Mom but also Dad is coming.
Adding people using the pattern.
한국뿐만 아니라 일본도 가고 싶어요.
I want to go to not only Korea but also Japan.
Expressing desire for multiple locations.
우유뿐만 아니라 주스도 있어요.
There is not only milk but also juice.
Listing items that exist.
책뿐만 아니라 공책도 샀어요.
I bought not only a book but also a notebook.
Past tense action with two objects.
영어뿐만 아니라 한국어도 공부해요.
I study not only English but also Korean.
Habitual action involving two subjects.
개뿐만 아니라 고양이도 좋아해요.
I like not only dogs but also cats.
Expressing preference.
빵뿐만 아니라 케이크도 만들어요.
I make not only bread but also cake.
Listing multiple skills or actions.
이 옷은 디자인뿐만 아니라 색깔도 예뻐요.
This clothing is not only pretty in design but also in color.
Describing attributes of an object.
제 친구는 마음뿐만 아니라 얼굴도 예뻐요.
My friend is not only kind-hearted but also beautiful.
Complimenting someone's inner and outer beauty.
이 식당은 맛뿐만 아니라 분위기도 좋아요.
This restaurant has not only good taste but also a good atmosphere.
Evaluating a place based on two criteria.
서울은 낮뿐만 아니라 밤에도 아름다워요.
Seoul is beautiful not only during the day but also at night.
Temporal contrast using the pattern.
그는 축구뿐만 아니라 농구도 잘해요.
He is good at not only soccer but also basketball.
Listing multiple athletic abilities.
비빔밥뿐만 아니라 김치찌개도 매워요.
Not only Bibimbap but also Kimchi-jjigae is spicy.
Grouping spicy foods together.
이 가방은 가격뿐만 아니라 질도 괜찮아요.
This bag is okay not only in price but also in quality.
Evaluating value for money.
방학뿐만 아니라 주말에도 바빠요.
I am busy not only during vacation but also on weekends.
Describing a continuous state of being busy.
그 가수는 노래뿐만 아니라 춤도 완벽해요.
That singer is perfect in not only singing but also dancing.
Using '완벽하다' to emphasize excellence.
취업을 위해서 자격증뿐만 아니라 경험도 중요해요.
For employment, not only certifications but also experience is important.
Discussing professional requirements.
컴퓨터는 일뿐만 아니라 게임을 하기에도 좋아요.
Computers are good for not only work but also for playing games.
Using '-기에도' in the second clause.
그곳은 경치뿐만 아니라 공기도 아주 맑아요.
That place has not only great scenery but also very clean air.
Describing environmental qualities.
제 동생은 공부뿐만 아니라 운동에도 재능이 있어요.
My younger sibling has talent in not only studying but also sports.
Using '재능이 있다' (to have talent).
이 영화는 재미뿐만 아니라 감동도 줍니다.
This movie provides not only fun but also a touching experience.
Abstract nouns like '재미' and '감동'.
건강을 위해 음식뿐만 아니라 수면도 신경 써야 해요.
For health, you must pay attention to not only food but also sleep.
Giving advice with '신경 써야 하다'.
그는 한국어뿐만 아니라 중국어와 일본어도 할 줄 알아요.
He knows how to speak not only Korean but also Chinese and Japanese.
Listing three items, with the last two joined by '와/과'.
기후 변화는 환경뿐만 아니라 경제에도 큰 타격을 줍니다.
Climate change deals a big blow to not only the environment but also the economy.
Discussing global issues and consequences.
이 기술은 효율성뿐만 아니라 안전성 면에서도 우수합니다.
This technology is superior not only in efficiency but also in safety.
Using '면에서' (in terms of) for formal comparison.
그 작가는 소설뿐만 아니라 시와 수필로도 유명합니다.
That author is famous for not only novels but also poetry and essays.
Listing literary genres using '-로도'.
스트레스는 정신 건강뿐만 아니라 신체 건강에도 해롭습니다.
Stress is harmful to not only mental health but also physical health.
Connecting psychological and physiological health.
전통문화는 보존뿐만 아니라 현대적인 계승도 필요합니다.
Traditional culture needs not only preservation but also modern succession.
Discussing cultural policy and development.
그의 발언은 국내뿐만 아니라 국제 사회에서도 논란이 되었습니다.
His remarks became controversial not only domestically but also in the international community.
Contrasting domestic and international scopes.
독서는 지식 습득뿐만 아니라 정서 함양에도 도움이 됩니다.
Reading is helpful for not only acquiring knowledge but also cultivating emotions.
Using academic terms like '습득' and '함양'.
그 프로젝트는 예산뿐만 아니라 시간도 많이 소요되었습니다.
That project consumed not only a lot of budget but also a lot of time.
Discussing resource consumption.
인공지능의 발전은 산업 구조뿐만 아니라 인간의 삶의 방식 자체를 변화시키고 있다.
The development of AI is changing not only the industrial structure but the very way of human life.
High-level societal analysis.
그의 논문은 이론적인 깊이뿐만 아니라 실증적인 분석에 있어서도 독보적이다.
His thesis is unrivaled not only in theoretical depth but also in empirical analysis.
Academic praise using '독보적이다'.
언어는 단순한 의사소통 수단뿐만 아니라 한 민족의 정신과 문화를 담는 그릇이다.
Language is not only a simple means of communication but a vessel that holds a nation's spirit and culture.
Metaphorical and philosophical definition.
예술은 미적 향유뿐만 아니라 사회적 비판의 기능을 수행하기도 한다.
Art performs the function of not only aesthetic enjoyment but also social criticism.
Discussing the multi-faceted roles of art.
민주주의는 투표권의 보장뿐만 아니라 소수자의 권리 보호도 수반되어야 한다.
Democracy must involve not only the guarantee of voting rights but also the protection of minority rights.
Political theory and requirements.
도시 재생 사업은 외형적인 변화뿐만 아니라 공동체의 회복을 목표로 해야 한다.
Urban regeneration projects should aim for not only outward changes but also the recovery of the community.
Urban planning and social goals.
그 철학자의 사상은 당대뿐만 아니라 후대에도 지대한 영향을 미쳤다.
That philosopher's thoughts had a profound influence not only on his own time but also on future generations.
Historical and longitudinal impact.
기업의 사회적 책임은 이윤 창출뿐만 아니라 윤리적 경영과 환경 보호를 포괄한다.
Corporate social responsibility encompasses not only profit creation but also ethical management and environmental protection.
Business ethics and definitions.
본 사안은 법률적인 판단뿐만 아니라 고도의 정치적 결단이 요구되는 복합적인 문제이다.
This matter is a complex issue that requires not only legal judgment but also high-level political decision-making.
Complex legal and political discourse.
그의 시 세계는 언어의 유희뿐만 아니라 존재의 근원에 대한 치열한 성찰을 담고 있다.
His poetic world contains not only wordplay but also a fierce reflection on the origin of existence.
Literary criticism and existential themes.
과학 기술의 진보는 인류에게 축복뿐만 아니라 재앙의 씨앗이 될 수도 있다는 경고가 잇따르고 있다.
Warnings are following one after another that the progress of science and technology can be not only a blessing but also the seed of disaster for mankind.
Dualistic philosophical warning.
역사 왜곡은 과거의 사실을 부정하는 것뿐만 아니라 미래 세대의 정체성을 훼손하는 행위이다.
History distortion is an act of not only denying past facts but also damaging the identity of future generations.
Ethical and historical analysis.
문화적 다양성의 존중은 공존의 차원뿐만 아니라 인류 문명의 풍요로움을 위해 필수적이다.
Respect for cultural diversity is essential not only for the dimension of coexistence but also for the richness of human civilization.
Global humanitarian discourse.
이 제도의 도입은 행정적 편의뿐만 아니라 시민들의 실질적인 권익 증진에 기여할 것으로 기대된다.
The introduction of this system is expected to contribute to not only administrative convenience but also the substantial promotion of citizens' rights and interests.
Administrative policy and public benefit.
인간의 욕망은 생존을 위한 본능뿐만 아니라 자아실현을 향한 끊임없는 갈구에서 비롯된다.
Human desire stems not only from the instinct for survival but also from the constant longing for self-actualization.
Psychological and philosophical inquiry.
고전의 가치는 시대를 초월하는 보편성뿐만 아니라 매번 새롭게 해석되는 가변성에 있다.
The value of classics lies not only in their timeless universality but also in their variability, being interpreted anew every time.
Aesthetic and literary theory.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Not only saying but also doing.
그는 말할 뿐만 아니라 행동으로 보여준다.
— Not only knowing but having deep understanding.
그는 사실을 알 뿐만 아니라 그 이유도 안다.
— Not only looking but observing carefully.
그는 영화를 볼 뿐만 아니라 분석도 한다.
— Not only eating but enjoying the process.
그는 음식을 먹을 뿐만 아니라 요리도 좋아한다.
— Not only studying but applying knowledge.
그는 공부할 뿐만 아니라 연구도 병행한다.
— Not only thinking but planning.
그는 생각할 뿐만 아니라 실천도 빠르다.
— Not only close in distance but also in relationship.
우리는 집이 가까울 뿐만 아니라 친하기도 하다.
— Not only difficult but also complex.
이 문제는 어려울 뿐만 아니라 복잡하다.
— Not only good but also beneficial.
이 약은 좋을 뿐만 아니라 효과도 빠르다.
— Not only expensive but also rare.
이 가방은 비쌀 뿐만 아니라 구하기도 힘들다.
Often Confused With
This means 'ONLY [Action]', while '뿐만 아니라' means 'NOT ONLY [Noun] but also...'.
This emphasizes 'on top of' a situation, whereas '뿐만 아니라' is more about listing attributes.
Without '뿐', this is less common and usually part of '아니라' (to not be), but '뿐만 아니라' is the fixed grammar pattern.
Idioms & Expressions
— Adding something good to something already good, plus more.
이 집은 금상첨화뿐만 아니라 위치도 최고예요.
Literary— Adding one misfortune to another, plus more.
그는 설상가상뿐만 아니라 건강까지 나빠졌다.
Literary— Killing two birds with one stone, and gaining even more.
이 일은 일거양득뿐만 아니라 보람도 있어요.
Formal— Not just a genius, but someone with hard work too.
그는 천재뿐만 아니라 노력파이기도 하다.
Neutral— Not just a friend, but like family.
그는 친구뿐만 아니라 가족 같은 존재다.
Neutral— Not just empty words, but action.
그는 말뿐만 아니라 실천력이 대단하다.
Neutral— Not just a name/title, but having the actual substance.
이름뿐만 아니라 실속도 있는 제품이다.
Neutral— Not just the appearance, but the inside too.
겉뿐만 아니라 속도 알찬 사람이다.
Neutral— Not just theory, but practice.
이론뿐만 아니라 실전 경험도 풍부하다.
Formal— Not just today, but always.
오늘뿐만 아니라 내일도 행복하세요.
Warm/PoliteEasily Confused
Both mean 'not only... but also'.
'뿐더러' is more literary and used almost exclusively in writing or very formal speeches, whereas '뿐만 아니라' is more versatile.
그는 성격이 좋을 뿐더러 지혜롭다.
Both add information.
'물론' means 'of course' or 'needless to say'. It emphasizes that the first part is a given.
그는 영어는 물론 한국어도 잘한다.
Both add information.
'게다가' is an adverb used at the start of a new sentence to add to the previous sentence.
날씨가 추워요. 게다가 비도 와요.
Both mean 'besides'.
'이외에도' is used to say 'outside of this' or 'other than this', which is slightly less emphatic than 'not only'.
이것 이외에도 다른 방법이 있다.
Both can link two things.
'동시에' emphasizes that two things happen at the same time, rather than just being two additional facts.
그는 화를 내는 동시에 울었다.
Sentence Patterns
N뿐만 아니라 N도 V
사과뿐만 아니라 바나나도 먹어요.
N뿐만 아니라 N도 A
디자인뿐만 아니라 색깔도 예뻐요.
V-(으)ㄹ 뿐만 아니라 V-기도 하다
노래를 잘할 뿐만 아니라 춤도 잘 춰요.
A-(으)ㄹ 뿐만 아니라 A-기도 하다
날씨가 추울 뿐만 아니라 바람도 많이 불어요.
N일 뿐만 아니라 N이기도 하다
그는 학생일 뿐만 아니라 가수이기도 해요.
N뿐만 아니라 N까지도 V
아이들뿐만 아니라 어른들까지도 좋아해요.
N뿐만 아니라 N면에서도 V
경제뿐만 아니라 문화 면에서도 중요합니다.
비단 N뿐만 아니라 N도 V
비단 나뿐만 아니라 우리 모두의 문제다.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Very High in formal/semi-formal Korean; Moderate in casual speech.
-
사과뿐만 아니라 바나나를 먹었어요.
→
사과뿐만 아니라 바나나도 먹었어요.
Missing the additive particle '-도' in the second clause makes the sentence illogical.
-
그는 친절할 뿐만 아니라 공부해요.
→
그는 친절할 뿐만 아니라 공부도 잘해요.
The two clauses must be semantically related. 'Being kind' and 'studying' are too different without a shared context like 'being a good student'.
-
친구 뿐만 아니라
→
친구뿐만 아니라
There should be no space between a noun and '뿐만'.
-
어제는 비가 올 뿐만 아니라 바람도 불었어요.
→
어제는 비가 왔을 뿐만 아니라 바람도 불었어요. (Or simply: 비가 올 뿐만 아니라...)
While the final verb usually handles tense, when using verbs, learners often forget that '-(으)ㄹ' is the standard connector here regardless of time, but can be adjusted for nuance.
-
음식뿐만 아니라 맛없어요.
→
음식뿐만 아니라 서비스도 맛없어요/나빠요.
The first noun is missing an attribute. You can't just say 'Not only food', you need 'Not only the [quality of] food'.
Tips
The '-도' Rule
Always check your second clause. If it doesn't have '-도', '-까지', or '-이기도 하다', your sentence will likely sound incomplete to a native speaker.
Parallelism
Try to keep the two things you are connecting similar. If the first is a simple noun, the second should be a simple noun. If the first is a long phrase, the second should be too.
No Spaces with Nouns
Remember: Noun+뿐만 (No space!). This is a very common mistake on the TOPIK exam. Treat '뿐만' like a particle when it follows a noun.
Positive vs. Negative
Keep the 'charge' consistent. Use it to stack benefits or stack complaints, but don't mix them unless you're writing a complex C2-level contrast.
N일 뿐만 아니라
When connecting 'He is A and B', use 'A일 뿐만 아니라 B이다'. The '일' is the future-determiner form of '이다' used in this pattern.
Tense 'PP'
Make sure to pronounce the 'ㅃ' in '뿐' with a strong, tense sound. If you say it softly like 'ㅂ', it might be confused with other words.
Scanning for logic
When reading long sentences in news articles, look for '뿐만 아니라' as a marker that the sentence is about to give you a second, related piece of information.
Formal Introductions
Use this during self-introductions to list your skills. It sounds much more professional than using '그리고' over and over.
Essay Structure
Use '그뿐만 아니라' (In addition to that) to start a new paragraph or a new supporting point in an argumentative essay.
The 'Bonus' Signal
Train your brain to treat '뿐만 아니라' as a signal that says 'Wait, there's more!' This helps with comprehension in fast-paced listening.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'Ppun' as 'Plus'. Ppun-man Ani-ra = Plus-man (Adding a man/item) is Not (Ani) enough, so we need more!
Visual Association
Imagine a scale. On one side is Noun A. Then someone adds Noun B and the scale balances or tips further. The bridge between them is labeled '뿐만 아니라'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe your best friend using '뿐만 아니라' for three different pairs of traits (e.g., smart/kind, tall/fast, funny/rich).
Word Origin
Derived from the bound noun '뿐' which indicates a limit or exclusivity, combined with the emphatic particle '만' and the negative copula form '아니라'.
Original meaning: Literally 'not being only just [X]'.
Koreanic (Native Korean components).Cultural Context
Ensure that the two things being linked are culturally appropriate to group together. Avoid linking a trivial thing with a very serious one using this structure.
Directly equivalent to 'Not only... but also', which is also a slightly formal/structured way of speaking in English.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Job Interview
- 경험뿐만 아니라
- 열정뿐만 아니라
- 실력뿐만 아니라
- 외국어뿐만 아니라
Restaurant Review
- 맛뿐만 아니라
- 가격뿐만 아니라
- 서비스뿐만 아니라
- 분위기뿐만 아니라
Travel Planning
- 호텔뿐만 아니라
- 비행기뿐만 아니라
- 관광지뿐만 아니라
- 맛집뿐만 아니라
Academic Writing
- 이론뿐만 아니라
- 결과뿐만 아니라
- 원인뿐만 아니라
- 현상뿐만 아니라
Complimenting
- 성격뿐만 아니라
- 얼굴뿐만 아니라
- 목소리뿐만 아니라
- 마음뿐만 아니라
Conversation Starters
"한국 음식 중에서 김치뿐만 아니라 좋아하는 음식이 뭐예요?"
"그 배우는 연기뿐만 아니라 성격도 좋다고 들었는데, 어떻게 생각하세요?"
"서울은 교통뿐만 아니라 다른 어떤 점이 편리한가요?"
"이 스마트폰은 기능뿐만 아니라 디자인도 마음에 드시나요?"
"공부뿐만 아니라 스트레스를 풀기 위해 무엇을 하시나요?"
Journal Prompts
오늘 하루 동안 감사했던 일 두 가지를 '뿐만 아니라'를 사용해서 적어보세요.
자신이 가진 장점 두 가지를 '뿐만 아니라'를 사용해서 설명해 보세요.
가장 좋아하는 도시의 특징 두 가지를 '뿐만 아니라'를 사용해서 묘사해 보세요.
한국어를 배우는 이유 두 가지를 '뿐만 아니라'를 사용해서 정리해 보세요.
최근에 산 물건의 장점 두 가지를 '뿐만 아니라'를 사용해서 리뷰해 보세요.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, but you must change the form to '-(으)ㄹ 뿐만 아니라'. For example, '먹다' becomes '먹을 뿐만 아니라'. The noun version is just 'Noun + 뿐만 아니라'.
In 95% of cases, yes. It completes the logical 'also' part of the sentence. Sometimes '-까지' (even) or '-조차' (even) can replace it for extra emphasis, but a particle of addition is needed.
They are essentially the same. '뿐만 아니라' is slightly more emphatic because of the '만' (only) particle. '뿐 아니라' is a bit more concise and often found in written texts.
Generally, no. It sounds awkward to say 'He is not only handsome but also a thief' unless you are being ironic. Usually, you group two positive or two negative things together.
For nouns, there is no space: '친구뿐만 아니라'. For verbs, there is a space after '뿐': '공부할 뿐만 아니라'. This is a common point of confusion for learners.
Yes, but it might sound a bit 'polite' or 'structured'. In very casual speech, friends might just use '-도 하고' or '게다가'.
The past tense is usually handled by the final verb of the sentence. You don't need to put '뿐만 아니라' into the past tense form.
No, it must follow a noun or a verb stem. If you want to start a sentence with 'In addition', use '뿐만 아니라' with a pronoun like '그뿐만 아니라' (Besides that).
Try to vary your language. If you use it once, use '게다가' or '-(으)ㄴ/는 데다가' for the next addition to avoid sounding repetitive.
Yes! It becomes 'Noun + 일 뿐만 아니라'. For example: '그는 선생님일 뿐만 아니라 작가이기도 해요' (He is not only a teacher but also an author).
Test Yourself 180 questions
Write a sentence: 'Not only apples but also bananas are delicious.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'He is not only smart but also kind.'
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Write a sentence: 'The restaurant is not only tasty but the service is good.'
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Write a sentence: 'I study not only Korean but also English.'
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Write a sentence: 'Seoul is beautiful not only in the day but at night.'
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Write a sentence: 'She is good at not only singing but also dancing.'
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Write a sentence: 'This phone is not only cheap but also high quality.'
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Write a sentence: 'Not only my friends but also my family came.'
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Write a sentence: 'It is not only raining but also windy.'
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Write a sentence: 'I like not only dogs but also cats.'
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Write a sentence: 'Education is important for not only children but also adults.'
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Write a sentence: 'The movie was not only long but also boring.'
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Write a sentence: 'I am busy not only today but also tomorrow.'
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Write a sentence: 'Not only the price but the design was perfect.'
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Write a sentence: 'He is not only a singer but also an actor.'
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Write a sentence: 'This book gives not only knowledge but also hope.'
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Write a sentence: 'I want to go to not only Korea but also Japan.'
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Write a sentence: 'Exercise is good for not only the body but also the mind.'
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Write a sentence: 'Not only the students but the teacher was surprised.'
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Write a sentence: 'I ate not only pizza but also chicken.'
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Say: 'I like not only Korean food but also Japanese food.'
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Say: 'This movie is not only fun but also touching.'
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Say: 'She is not only pretty but also very kind.'
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Say: 'I am busy not only on weekdays but also on weekends.'
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Say: 'My brother likes not only soccer but also basketball.'
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Say: 'The weather is not only hot but also humid.'
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Say: 'Not only the price but the quality is important.'
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Say: 'He speaks not only Korean but also Chinese.'
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Say: 'This restaurant is famous for not only its food but its atmosphere.'
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Say: 'I have not only a dog but also a cat.'
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Say: 'Learning Korean is not only hard but also fun.'
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Say: 'Not only me but everyone was happy.'
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Say: 'I want to buy not only a shirt but also pants.'
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Say: 'The coffee is not only cheap but also delicious.'
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Say: 'He is not only a good student but also a good leader.'
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Say: 'Not only today but tomorrow is a holiday too.'
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Say: 'This book is not only interesting but also helpful.'
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Say: 'I like not only summer but also winter.'
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Say: 'Not only the design but the size is perfect.'
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Say: 'He is not only rich but also generous.'
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Listen and choose: '사과뿐만 아니라 포도도 샀어요.' What did the speaker buy?
Listen and choose: '그녀는 예쁠 뿐만 아니라 똑똑해요.' What are her traits?
Listen and choose: '서울뿐만 아니라 제주도도 가보고 싶어요.' Where does the speaker want to go?
Listen and choose: '맛뿐만 아니라 양도 많아요.' Why is the food good?
Listen and choose: '공부뿐만 아니라 아르바이트도 해요.' What does the speaker do?
Listen and choose: '어제뿐만 아니라 오늘도 늦었어요.' When was the person late?
Listen and choose: '디자인뿐만 아니라 가격도 착해요.' Is the price expensive?
Listen and choose: '친구뿐만 아니라 선생님도 오셨어요.' Who came?
Listen and choose: '영화뿐만 아니라 드라마도 좋아해요.' What does the speaker like?
Listen and choose: '한국어뿐만 아니라 일본어도 할 수 있어요.' What languages can the speaker speak?
Listen and choose: '비가 올 뿐만 아니라 천둥도 쳐요.' What's happening in the weather?
Listen and choose: '성격뿐만 아니라 외모도 좋아요.' What is good about the person?
Listen and choose: '평일뿐만 아니라 주말에도 일해요.' When does the person work?
Listen and choose: '건강뿐만 아니라 돈도 중요해요.' What is important?
Listen and choose: '이 책은 재미뿐만 아니라 지식도 줘요.' What does the book provide?
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The expression '~ 뿐만 아니라' is the best way to expand your Korean sentences from simple lists to sophisticated descriptions. Always remember to pair it with '-도' in the second part to ensure your 'not only... but also' logic is grammatically complete. For example: '맛뿐만 아니라 가격도 좋아요' (Not only the taste, but the price is also good).
- Used to express 'not only A but also B', adding extra information to a sentence.
- Commonly used with nouns (Noun + 뿐만 아니라) and verbs/adjectives (-(으)ㄹ 뿐만 아니라).
- Requires the second clause to typically end with the particle '-도' (also/too).
- Appropriate for both formal writing and polite everyday conversation to sound more descriptive.
The '-도' Rule
Always check your second clause. If it doesn't have '-도', '-까지', or '-이기도 하다', your sentence will likely sound incomplete to a native speaker.
Parallelism
Try to keep the two things you are connecting similar. If the first is a simple noun, the second should be a simple noun. If the first is a long phrase, the second should be too.
No Spaces with Nouns
Remember: Noun+뿐만 (No space!). This is a very common mistake on the TOPIK exam. Treat '뿐만' like a particle when it follows a noun.
Positive vs. Negative
Keep the 'charge' consistent. Use it to stack benefits or stack complaints, but don't mix them unless you're writing a complex C2-level contrast.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Phrases
More communication words
~대해서
A2About; a particle indicating the subject of discussion.
~ 에 대해
A2About; concerning; regarding.
~쯤
A2About; approximately (quantity, time)
동의
B1The act of agreeing with someone's opinion or a proposal. A core functional word for IELTS Writing Task 2 'agree or disagree' questions.
모호성
B2The quality of being open to more than one interpretation; inexactness or lack of clarity.
그리고
A1And/and then
공지
A2A formal announcement or notification.
답하다
A1To answer
대답하다
A1To answer
대답
A1Answer; Reply (response to a question)