At the A1 level, learners encounter ~는데/은데 as a basic way to connect two sentences, often translated as 'but' or 'and.' At this stage, the focus is on simple contrast or providing a very basic reason for a following action. For example, 'The weather is good, so let's go out' (날씨가 좋은데 나가요). Learners are taught the basic conjugation: ~는데 for verbs and ~ㄴ/은데 for adjectives. The primary goal is to help students move beyond short, isolated sentences like '날씨가 좋아요. 나가요.' to more connected speech. It is also introduced as a polite way to end a sentence when answering a question indirectly, such as 'Is it expensive?' 'It's a bit expensive...' (좀 비싼데요...). This helps A1 learners sound more polite and less abrupt in basic social interactions. The emphasis is on recognizing the form and using it in very common, high-frequency situations like shopping or talking about the weather.
At the A2 level, the usage of ~는데/은데 expands to its most common function: providing background information for a request, suggestion, or question. A2 learners are expected to use this structure to set the scene. For example, 'I'm going to the supermarket, do you want anything?' (마트에 가는데 뭐 필요한 거 있어요?). This level also introduces the past tense form ~었는데/았는데. Learners begin to understand that this ending is not just a conjunction but a tool for social 'softening.' Instead of asking a question out of the blue, they learn to provide context first. This makes their Korean sound much more natural and culturally appropriate. They also practice using it to express mild surprise or to seek a reaction from the listener at the end of a sentence. The distinction between ~는데 (action) and ~ㄴ/은데 (descriptive) is reinforced through more varied vocabulary.
Intermediate B1 learners start to use ~는데/은데 to handle more complex social situations, such as making excuses or politely disagreeing. They learn that trailing off a sentence with ~는데요 is a key way to decline an invitation without being offensive. For instance, 'I'd love to go, but I have a lot of work...' (가고 싶은데 일이 많아서요...). B1 learners also begin to see how this ending can be used to introduce a topic that they want to discuss further. It becomes a 'topic opener.' They also learn to distinguish it more clearly from ~지만 (strong contrast) and ~아/어서 (direct cause). The nuance of 'explaining the situation' versus 'giving a reason' becomes a focus. At this level, learners are expected to use ~는데/은데 fluidly in conversation to maintain the flow and show they are considering the listener's perspective.
At the B2 level, students master the rhetorical and nuanced uses of ~는데/은데. They can use it to express a sense of irony, unexpected results, or to set up a complex narrative. For example, 'I studied so hard, but the exam was still difficult' (공부를 정말 열심히 했는데도 시험이 어려웠어요). Here, the addition of ~도 (even) adds another layer of meaning. B2 learners also use ~는데 to provide elaborate background for professional reports or formal presentations. They understand how to use the ending to transition between different points in a speech smoothly. The use of honorifics with this ending (~시는데) becomes second nature. They also recognize when the ending is used to imply a sense of 'expectation'—that the listener should do something based on the background provided, without the speaker having to ask explicitly.
Advanced C1 learners use ~는데/은데 with high precision to manipulate the tone and 'feel' of a conversation. They can use it to subtly steer a discussion or to provide a sophisticated level of indirectness that is highly valued in formal Korean society. At this level, learners can analyze literary texts or news reports where ~는데 is used to contrast societal trends or historical events. They understand the stylistic choice of using ~는데 over other connectors to create a specific narrative rhythm. They also master the use of the ending in idiomatic expressions and complex grammatical patterns like ~는 데(에) 있어서 (in the matter of...). Their usage is indistinguishable from a native speaker's, showing a deep understanding of the emotional and social weight each 'background' carries.
At the C2 level, mastery of ~는데/은데 involves an intuitive grasp of its role in the architecture of the Korean language. C2 learners can use it to create poetic effects, deep irony, or to convey complex philosophical contrasts in high-level academic or creative writing. They understand the historical evolution of the ending and how it interacts with other archaic or highly formal structures. In spontaneous speech, they use it to navigate the most delicate social situations with perfect etiquette, using the 'backgrounding' function to provide immense clarity while maintaining maximum politeness. They can also critique the use of the ending in media, identifying when it is used to manipulate public opinion by framing a 'background' in a certain way. For a C2 learner, ~는데/은데 is not just a grammar point; it is a fundamental element of Korean cultural logic and communication strategy.

~는데/은데 30秒了解

  • A versatile Korean ending used to provide background information before a request or question.
  • Functions as 'but', 'so', or 'and' depending on the context of the sentence.
  • Changes form based on whether it follows an action verb, adjective, or noun.
  • Essential for polite communication and softening direct statements in daily Korean.
The Korean grammatical ending ~는데/은데 is one of the most versatile and frequently used structures in the Korean language. At its core, it serves as a connective particle that provides background information or sets the stage for what the speaker is about to say next. Unlike the English word 'but,' which often implies a direct contradiction, ~는데/은데 is much broader. It can mean 'and,' 'so,' 'but,' or even 'given that...' depending on the context of the conversation.
Background Context
This is the primary function. You use it to explain a situation before asking a question, making a suggestion, or giving a command. For example, 'I'm going to the store (background), do you need anything?'

비가 오는데 우산 있어요? (It is raining, [so/but] do you have an umbrella?)

In Korean social dynamics, being direct can sometimes be perceived as rude or abrupt. By using ~는데/은데, a speaker 'softens' their approach. It signals to the listener that there is more information coming or that the speaker is being considerate of the current circumstances. This is why you will hear it constantly in service industries, polite requests, and even when someone is hesitating to give a negative answer. Furthermore, it is used for contrast. When two facts are slightly at odds, ~는데/은데 highlights that difference without the harshness of '지만'. For instance, 'This dress is pretty, but it's too expensive.' Here, the prettiness is the background, and the price is the contrasting point.
Exclamatory Ending
When used at the very end of a sentence (followed by 요), it expresses surprise or expects a reaction from the listener. 'Wow, it's really cold!' (추운데요!)

어, 이거 맛있는데요! (Oh, this is actually delicious! [I'm surprised])

Understanding this word is essential for moving from a beginner to an intermediate level because it moves your speech away from short, choppy sentences toward natural, flowing Korean discourse. It is the 'social lubricant' of the Korean language, allowing for nuanced interactions that respect the listener's space while clearly communicating the speaker's needs. Whether you are explaining why you are calling someone or why you can't attend a party, this ending provides the necessary 'why' before the 'what.'
Conjugating ~는데/은데 requires attention to the type of word you are attaching it to: action verbs, descriptive verbs (adjectives), or nouns. Each category follows a specific rule set that learners must internalize to speak naturally.
Action Verbs (Present Tense)
For all action verbs, regardless of whether the stem ends in a vowel or a consonant, you add ~는데. For example, 먹다 (to eat) becomes 먹는데, and 가다 (to go) becomes 가는데.

지금 숙제 하는데 좀 도와줄래? (I'm doing homework right now, can you help me?)

Descriptive Verbs / Adjectives
If the adjective stem ends in a vowel, add ~ㄴ데. If it ends in a consonant, add ~은데. For example, 크다 (big) becomes 큰데, and 작다 (small) becomes 작은데. Exception: Adjectives ending in 있다/없다 always take ~는데 (e.g., 맛있는데).

방이 좁은데 다른 곳으로 갈까요? (The room is narrow, shall we go somewhere else?)

Nouns
For nouns, you use ~인데. This is the combination of the copula 이다 and the ending. For example, 학생 (student) becomes 학생인데.
For example, 'I went to the department store yesterday, and it was so crowded' would be '어제 백화점에 갔는데 사람이 정말 많았어요.' Notice how the first part sets the scene for the second observation. Another crucial usage is the 'trailing off' sentence. If someone asks you to go out and you are busy, you might say '바쁜데요...' (I'm busy...). By not finishing the sentence, you are politely implying 'so I can't go' without having to say the potentially harsh words directly. This usage is extremely common in polite society.

제가 지금 돈이 없는데요... (I don't have money right now... [implying: so I can't buy it/lend it])

When using this with honorifics, the honorific marker ~(으)시 is inserted before the ending, resulting in ~시는데 or ~(으)신데. For instance, 'The teacher is reading a book' becomes '선생님께서 책을 읽으시는데...'. Mastery of these conjugation rules allows you to build complex, polite, and contextually rich sentences that are the hallmark of fluent Korean communication.
In South Korea, ~는데/은데 is omnipresent. You will hear it from the moment you step into a taxi to the moment you order coffee. It is the default way to initiate an interaction.
Customer Service
Staff will often use this to explain a situation. 'The item you are looking for is out of stock' might be said as '그 물건은 품절됐는데...' followed by a suggestion for a different item. It makes the bad news sound less final and more like a shared situation.

손님, 이 사이즈는 없는데 다른 색상은 어떠세요? (Customer, we don't have this size, but how about another color?)

In office environments, it is used to report progress or issues. Instead of saying 'I finished the report. Look at it,' a Korean employee might say '보고서 다 썼는데 한번 확인해 주시겠어요?' (I've finished the report, so could you please check it once?). This creates a smoother transition between the completed task and the request for feedback.
Phone Conversations
When calling someone, it's standard to say 'Hello, this is [Name], and...' (여보세요, 저 [이름]인데...). The ~인데 here serves as the background for why you are calling.

실례지만, 지금 어디 계신데요? (Excuse me, but where are you right now?)

You will also hear it in disagreements. If someone says something you don't agree with, you might start your response with '제 생각은 좀 다른데요...' (My thoughts are a bit different...). This is much more polite than saying 'I disagree' (반대합니다). It invites the other person to listen to your perspective without creating immediate conflict. In essence, ~는데/은데 is the sound of Korean politeness and situational awareness. It is the linguistic equivalent of a gentle tap on the shoulder before speaking, ensuring the listener is ready for the information that follows. Whether in a bustling market or a formal meeting, this ending is the key to sounding like a natural, culturally-attuned speaker.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is treating ~는데/은데 as a perfect synonym for 'but' (지만). While they both can translate to 'but,' ~지만 is used for a strong, direct contrast between two facts. ~는데/은데 is much softer and focuses on the background. Using ~지만 when you should use ~는데 can make you sound overly argumentative or blunt.
Conjugation Errors
Confusing action verbs and descriptive verbs is the second most common error. Beginners often say '예쁜데' (correct) but might mistakenly say '가은데' instead of '가는데' (incorrect). Remember: Action verbs = 는데, Descriptive verbs = ㄴ/은데.

Incorrect: 날씨가 좋는데 산책 갈까요? (Wrong conjugation for adjective '좋다')
Correct: 날씨가 좋은데 산책 갈까요? (Correct adjective conjugation)

Another mistake is failing to use ~는데/은데 when making requests. If you say '배고파요. 밥 먹으러 가요' (I'm hungry. Let's go eat), it sounds like two unrelated facts. Using '배고픈데 밥 먹으러 가요' makes it clear that the hunger is the *reason* for the suggestion.
The '요' Omission
When using ~는데 at the end of a sentence to be polite or express surprise, you MUST add '요'. Saying '추운데' to a stranger sounds like you are talking to yourself or being rude. '추운데요' is the correct polite form.

Incorrect: 이거 제 책인데. (Sounds unfinished or blunt)
Correct: 이거 제 책인데요. (Polite explanation or mild protest)

Lastly, don't overuse it to the point where your sentences never end. While it's great for flow, every thought doesn't need a background. If you are just stating a simple fact, a standard '습니다' or '아요/어요' ending is often better. Balance is key. By avoiding these common pitfalls—misconjugation, over-reliance on '지만', and forgetting the polite '요'—you will quickly master one of the most expressive tools in the Korean language.
While ~는데/은데 is unique, it shares some semantic space with other connectors. Understanding the differences is crucial for advanced fluency.
~지만 (But)
This is a strong 'but'. Use it when you want to emphasize a direct contradiction. 'I like Korean food, but I don't like kimchi' (한국 음식을 좋아하지만 김치는 싫어해요). Using ~는데 here would make it sound like 'I like Korean food, [and/but] I don't like kimchi,' which is softer and less focused on the conflict.

Comparison:
1. 바쁘지만 갈게요. (I'm busy, but I'll go. [Emphasis on the sacrifice])
2. 바쁜데 갈게요. (I'm busy, [so/but] I'll go. [Emphasis on the current state])

~(으)니까 (Because/Since)
This indicates a strong reason or cause. 'Since it's raining, take an umbrella' (비가 오니까 우산 가져가세요). ~는데 is much more indirect. 'It's raining, [so] take an umbrella' (비가 오는데 우산 가져가세요). Use ~(으)니까 when the reason is the main point, and ~는데 when the reason is just background info.
~아/어서 (So/And then)
This shows a logical sequence or a reason that is already known. 'I was sick, so I couldn't go' (아파서 못 갔어요). ~는데 would be used if you were explaining the situation to someone who didn't know: 'I was sick, [and/so] I couldn't go' (아팠는데 못 갔어요).

~는데 vs ~아/어서:
배가 아파서 병원에 갔어요. (Logical result: Stomach hurt -> went to hospital)
배가 아픈데 병원에 안 갔어요. (Contrast: Stomach hurt, [but] didn't go to hospital)

Finally, ~거늘 or ~되 are formal or literary alternatives used in writing or very formal speeches to show contrast or background, but they are rarely heard in daily conversation. For most learners, mastering the subtle dance between ~는데, ~지만, and ~(으)니까 is the most important step toward natural-sounding Korean.

How Formal Is It?

趣味小知识

The '데' in this ending is the same '데' used in '곳' (place). So, you are literally saying 'In the place/situation where [X] is happening, [Y]...'.

发音指南

UK /nɯn.de/ /ɯn.de/
US /nʊn.deɪ/ /ʊn.deɪ/
The stress is generally even, but a slight emphasis can be placed on the first syllable to highlight the background.
押韵词
근데 (geunde) 안돼 (andwae - slant) 본데 (bonde) 온데 (onde) 간데 (gande) 만데 (mande) 산데 (sande) 한데 (hande)
常见错误
  • Pronouncing 'eun' like 'oon' in 'moon'. It should be the flat 'eu' sound.
  • Over-emphasizing the 'de' making it sound like 'day'.

难度评级

阅读 2/5

Easy to recognize in text once the conjugation rules are learned.

写作 4/5

Requires distinguishing between action and descriptive verbs correctly.

口语 5/5

Hard to master the 'trailing off' nuance and the social timing.

听力 3/5

Very common, so learners get lots of exposure quickly.

接下来学什么

前置知识

이다 (to be) 있다/없다 (to have/not have) Verb/Adjective conjugation basics

接下来学习

~지만 (strong contrast) ~아/어서 (cause/effect) ~(으)니까 (reason)

高级

~는데도 (even though) ~는 데 (place/matter) ~는 반면에 (on the other hand)

需要掌握的语法

~지만 vs ~는데

바쁘지만 갈게요 (Strong contrast) vs 바쁜데 갈게요 (Background contrast)

~아/어서 vs ~는데

배가 아파서 병원에 가요 (Reason) vs 배가 아픈데 병원에 가요 (Background/Contrast)

~는데 vs ~는 데 (Space)

공부하는데 (while studying) vs 공부하는 데 (in the matter of studying/place for studying)

~는데도

비가 오는데도 축구를 했어요 (Even though it rained, we played soccer)

~는 중인데

지금 가는 중인데 거의 다 왔어요 (I'm on my way and almost there)

按水平分级的例句

1

날씨가 좋은데 공원에 가요.

The weather is good, so let's go to the park.

좋다 (adjective) + 은데 (vowel ending stem).

2

이거 맛있는데 더 드세요.

This is delicious, so please have some more.

맛있다 (있다/없다) + 는데.

3

배가 고픈데 밥 먹어요.

I'm hungry, let's eat.

고프다 (adjective) + ㄴ데.

4

친구가 오는데 기다려요.

A friend is coming, so I'm waiting.

오다 (verb) + 는데.

5

방이 작은데 괜찮아요?

The room is small, is it okay?

작다 (adjective) + 은데.

6

한국말을 공부하는데 재미있어요.

I'm studying Korean, and it's fun.

공부하다 (verb) + 는데.

7

돈이 없는데 어떡해요?

I don't have money, what should I do?

없다 (있다/없다) + 는데.

8

백화점에 가는데 같이 갈래요?

I'm going to the department store, do you want to go together?

가다 (verb) + 는데.

1

어제 영화를 봤는데 정말 슬펐어요.

I watched a movie yesterday, and it was really sad.

보다 (past tense) + 았는데.

2

백화점에 갔는데 문을 닫았어요.

I went to the department store, but it was closed.

가다 (past tense) + 았는데.

3

지금 바쁜데 나중에 전화할게요.

I'm busy now, so I'll call you later.

바쁘다 (adjective) + ㄴ데.

4

저기 식당이 있는데 거기서 먹을까요?

There is a restaurant over there, shall we eat there?

있다 (있다/없다) + 는데.

5

비가 오는데 우산이 없어요.

It's raining, but I don't have an umbrella.

오다 (verb) + 는데.

6

컴퓨터를 샀는데 고장이 났어요.

I bought a computer, but it broke.

사다 (past tense) + 았는데.

7

숙제를 다 했는데 선생님께 드릴까요?

I finished all my homework, should I give it to the teacher?

하다 (past tense) + 였는데 (했데).

8

이 옷이 예쁜데 너무 비싸요.

This clothes is pretty, but it's too expensive.

예쁘다 (adjective) + ㄴ데.

1

도와주고 싶은데 제가 지금 좀 바쁘네요.

I want to help, but I'm a bit busy right now.

싶다 (adjective-like) + 은데.

2

그 영화를 이미 봤는데 다른 거 볼까요?

I've already seen that movie, shall we watch something else?

보다 (past tense) + 았는데.

3

어제 전화를 했는데 왜 안 받으셨어요?

I called you yesterday, why didn't you answer?

하다 (past tense) + 였는데.

4

길을 모르는데 좀 가르쳐 주시겠어요?

I don't know the way, could you please show me?

모르다 (verb) + 는데.

5

날씨가 추운데 안으로 들어오세요.

It's cold outside, please come inside.

춥다 (adjective, p-irregular) + 운데.

6

그분은 친절한데 동생은 좀 무서워요.

That person is kind, but their younger sibling is a bit scary.

친절하다 (adjective) + ㄴ데.

7

다이어트 중인데 케이크를 먹어 버렸어요.

I'm on a diet, but I ended up eating cake.

중이다 (noun + copula) + 인데.

8

열심히 공부했는데 시험을 못 봤어요.

I studied hard, but I didn't do well on the exam.

공부하다 (past tense) + 였는데.

1

분명히 여기 뒀는데 어디로 갔지?

I definitely put it here, where did it go?

두다 (past tense) + 었는는데.

2

준비를 많이 했는데도 실수를 했어요.

Even though I prepared a lot, I made a mistake.

하다 (past tense) + 었는데 + 도.

3

사장님을 만나러 왔는데 지금 자리에 안 계세요.

I came to see the boss, but he is not at his desk right now.

오다 (past tense) + 았는데.

4

가격은 저렴한데 품질은 정말 좋네요.

The price is cheap, but the quality is really good.

저렴하다 (adjective) + ㄴ데.

5

그 소식을 들었는데 정말 깜짝 놀랐어요.

I heard that news, and I was really surprised.

듣다 (past tense) + 었는데.

6

약속 장소에 도착했는데 아무도 없었어요.

I arrived at the meeting place, but no one was there.

도착하다 (past tense) + 였는데.

7

외국인인데 한국말을 정말 잘하시네요!

You're a foreigner, but you speak Korean so well!

외국인 (noun) + 인데.

8

비가 올 것 같은데 우산을 챙기세요.

It looks like it's going to rain, so take an umbrella.

같다 (adjective) + 은데.

1

현대 사회는 급변하고 있는데 교육 시스템은 그대로다.

Modern society is changing rapidly, but the education system remains the same.

있다 (progressive) + 는데.

2

기술은 발전하는데 인류의 행복은 정체되어 있다.

Technology is advancing, but human happiness is stagnant.

발전하다 (verb) + 는데.

3

그 정책은 취지는 좋은데 실효성이 떨어진다.

The intent of that policy is good, but its effectiveness is low.

좋다 (adjective) + 은데.

4

모두가 찬성하는데 저만 반대하는 것 같아요.

Everyone agrees, but I feel like I'm the only one opposing.

찬성하다 (verb) + 는데.

5

그는 재능은 뛰어난데 노력이 부족하다.

He has outstanding talent, but lacks effort.

뛰어나다 (adjective) + ㄴ데.

6

상황이 이런데 어떻게 가만히 있을 수 있겠어요?

Given the situation is like this, how can I stay still?

이렇다 (adjective, h-irregular) + ㄴ데.

7

경제 지표는 개선되고 있는데 서민들의 삶은 여전히 힘들다.

Economic indicators are improving, but the lives of ordinary people are still hard.

있다 (progressive) + 는데.

8

이미 결론이 났는데 다시 논의할 필요가 있을까요?

A conclusion has already been reached, is there a need to discuss it again?

나다 (past tense) + 았는데.

1

인간의 욕망은 끝이 없는데 자원은 한정되어 있다.

Human desires are endless, but resources are limited.

없다 (있다/없다) + 는데.

2

진실은 밝혀지기 마련인데 왜 숨기려 하는가?

Truth is bound to be revealed, so why try to hide it?

마련이다 (noun + copula) + 인데.

3

문명은 고도로 발달했으나 도덕적 가치는 퇴보하고 있는데...

Civilization has highly developed, but moral values are regressing...

있다 (progressive) + 는데 (trailing off).

4

그의 문체는 간결한데 그 속에 담긴 철학은 심오하다.

His writing style is concise, but the philosophy within it is profound.

간결하다 (adjective) + ㄴ데.

5

세월은 유수와 같은데 나는 무엇을 이루었는가?

Time is like flowing water, so what have I achieved?

같다 (adjective) + 은데.

6

권력은 영원할 것 같은데 결국 모래성처럼 무너진다.

Power seems eternal, but eventually collapses like a sandcastle.

같다 (adjective) + 은데.

7

과학적 근거는 불충분한데 대중은 맹목적으로 믿고 있다.

Scientific evidence is insufficient, but the public believes blindly.

불충분하다 (adjective) + ㄴ데.

8

예술의 길은 먼데 인생은 짧기만 하다.

The path of art is long, but life is only short.

멀다 (adjective, l-irregular) + ㄴ데.

常见搭配

아닌데
있는데
없는데
모르는데
바쁜데
좋은데
예쁜데
멀었는데
다 했는데
맛있는데

常用短语

실례지만 ~인데요

— Used to introduce oneself or a situation politely before asking something.

실례지만 길을 좀 묻고 싶은데요...

다름이 아니라 ~는데

— Used to get to the point after a polite opening.

다름이 아니라 부탁이 하나 있는데...

시간 있으면 ~는데

— Used to suggest something if the other person has time.

시간 있으면 영화 보러 가고 싶은데...

혹시 ~는데

— Used to tentatively bring up a topic.

혹시 그 소식 들었는데 진짜예요?

제 생각에는 ~는데

— Used to politely state an opinion.

제 생각에는 이게 더 좋은데 어떠세요?

비가 오는데

— A very common way to start a sentence about the weather or changing plans.

비가 오는데 우산 빌려줄까요?

배고픈데

— The standard way to suggest eating.

배고픈데 뭐 좀 먹을까요?

아직 안 왔는데

— Used to report that someone hasn't arrived yet.

영수 씨가 아직 안 왔는데 먼저 시작할까요?

공부하고 있는데

— Used to explain what one is doing when interrupted.

지금 공부하고 있는데 나중에 얘기해요.

어제 봤는데

— Used to mention a past experience as context.

어제 그 사람 봤는데 아주 친절하더라고요.

容易混淆的词

~는데/은데 vs ~지만

~지만 is for strong contrast; ~는데 is for background or soft contrast.

~는데/은데 vs ~아/어서

~아/어서 is for direct logical cause; ~는데 is for situational background.

~는데/은데 vs ~는 데 (with space)

~는 데 (spaced) means 'place' or 'matter', while ~는데 (no space) is the connective ending.

习语与表达

"말은 좋은데"

— Used when something sounds good in theory but might be hard to execute.

말은 좋은데 실제로 가능할까요?

Neutral
"얼굴은 예쁜데"

— Used to imply that despite a good appearance, there is a negative trait (like personality).

얼굴은 예쁜데 성격이 좀 그래요.

Informal
"돈은 없는데 배는 고프고"

— A common expression for being in a pathetic or difficult situation.

돈은 없는데 배는 고프고 정말 힘들다.

Informal
"꿈은 큰데"

— Used when someone has big ambitions but lacks the means or effort.

꿈은 큰데 실천을 안 하네.

Neutral
"말은 안 하는데"

— Used when someone is keeping a secret or not speaking their mind despite knowing.

말은 안 하는데 다 알고 있어요.

Neutral
"가고는 싶은데"

— A classic 'soft' rejection of an invitation.

가고는 싶은데 선약이 있어서요.

Polite
"아는 건 없는데"

— A humble way to start an explanation or opinion.

아는 건 없는데 제 의견을 말씀드릴게요.

Humble
"몸은 하나인데"

— Used when someone is overwhelmed with too many tasks.

몸은 하나인데 할 일은 태산이네.

Informal
"보긴 봤는데"

— Used when one saw something but didn't pay close attention.

보긴 봤는데 기억이 잘 안 나요.

Neutral
"들리긴 하는데"

— Used when one can hear a sound but can't understand the meaning.

소리는 들리긴 하는데 무슨 말인지 모르겠어요.

Neutral

容易混淆

~는데/은데 vs ~는데

Connective ending.

Used to link two clauses with background info.

가는데 (I'm going, [so/but]...)

~는데/은데 vs ~는 데

Noun '데' meaning place/matter.

Functions as a noun phrase, often followed by particles like '에'.

먹는 데에 1시간 걸려요. (It takes 1 hour to eat.)

~는데/은데 vs ~ㄴ데

Adjective form.

Used for descriptive verbs ending in a vowel.

큰데 (It's big, [so/but]...)

~는데/은데 vs ~은데

Adjective form.

Used for descriptive verbs ending in a consonant.

작은데 (It's small, [so/but]...)

~는데/은데 vs ~인데

Noun form.

Used for nouns + copula 이다.

학생인데 (I'm a student, [so/but]...)

句型

A1

[Adj/Verb] + 는데/은데 + [Request/Question]

배고픈데 뭐 먹을까요?

A2

[Past Verb] + 는데 + [Result/Contrast]

영화를 봤는데 재미없었어요.

B1

[Verb] + 고 싶은데 + [Excuse]

가고 싶은데 시간이 없어요.

B1

[Noun] + 인데 + [Explanation]

제 친구인데 아주 착해요.

B2

[Verb] + 는 중인데 + [Interruption]

숙제 하는 중인데 전화가 왔어요.

B2

[Adj] + ㄴ/은데도 + [Unexpected Result]

비싼데도 인기가 많아요.

C1

[Clause 1] + 는데 + [Clause 2 (Rhetorical)]

다 아는데 왜 물어보세요?

C2

[Clause 1] + 는데 + [Clause 2 (Philosophical Contrast)]

인생은 짧은데 예술은 길다.

词族

相关

~는데도 (even though)
~는 데 (in the place/matter of)
~는 데다가 (in addition to)
~긴 한데 (it is true that... but)
~다는데 (they say that... but)

如何使用

frequency

Extremely High (Top 10 most used grammar points)

常见错误
  • 좋는데 좋은데

    좋다 is a descriptive verb (adjective) ending in a consonant, so it must take ~은데.

  • 가은데 가는데

    가다 is an action verb, which always takes ~는데 regardless of the ending vowel/consonant.

  • 바쁘지만요 바쁜데요

    To end a sentence politely with a background/excuse, use ~는데요, not ~지만요.

  • 있은데 있는데

    있다 and 없다 always take ~는데, even though they behave like adjectives.

  • Using ~는데 for a strong 'but' in a formal debate. ~지만 or ~으나

    In very formal or argumentative contexts, ~는데 might sound too soft or indirect.

小贴士

Action vs. Descriptive

Always identify the verb type first. Action verbs = 는데. Descriptive verbs = ㄴ/은데. This is the golden rule.

Softening Requests

Never ask for a favor directly. Always use ~는데 to explain why you are asking first. It makes a huge difference in how you are perceived.

Listen for '는데'

When you hear '는데' in a conversation, prepare yourself for a question or a request. It's a clear signal in Korean discourse.

The 'Trailing Off' Technique

If you need to say 'no', just say the reason followed by '는데요...' and stop. The listener will understand the 'no' without you having to say it.

Sentence Flow

Use ~는데 to combine short sentences. Instead of 'I went home. I slept.', say '집에 갔는데 바로 잤어요.' (I went home and went straight to sleep.)

Contrast vs. Background

If the two clauses are opposites, it's contrast. If the first clause explains the second, it's background. ~는데 covers both!

Respect the Elders

When talking to a superior, use ~시는데. For example, '선생님께서 오시는데...' (The teacher is coming...).

있는데/없는데

Memorize '있는데' and '없는데' as fixed blocks. They are used constantly and always take the '는데' form.

The 'Eu' Sound

Make sure your '은데' (eun-de) has a flat mouth shape for the 'eu' sound. Don't round your lips like 'oon'.

Rhetorical Use

Try using ~는데 to express surprise. '와, 진짜 예쁜데요!' (Wow, it's really pretty!) This makes you sound very expressive.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of 'NUN-DE' as 'NONE-DE' (None of the other stuff matters, here is the background). Or imagine a 'Bridge' (데) connecting two islands of thought.

视觉联想

Imagine a stage curtain opening (the background) before the main actor (the request) steps out.

Word Web

Background Contrast Politeness Softening Request Suggestion Surprise Context

挑战

Try to start every request today with a background sentence using ~는데. For example: 'I'm thirsty, can I have water?'

词源

Derived from the middle Korean connective '-ㄴ대' and '-는데', which combined a definitive marker with a spatial or situational noun '데' (place/circumstance).

原始含义: Originally meant 'in the place where' or 'in the situation that'.

Koreanic

文化背景

Using ~는데 without the polite '요' to an elder is a major social faux pas, as it sounds like you are challenging them or being dismissive.

English speakers often use 'so' or 'but' or 'and' to achieve this, but Korean uses this one specific ending to cover all those nuances of 'setting the scene'.

Commonly used in K-Pop lyrics to set a melancholic or reflective mood before a chorus. A staple in K-Drama dialogue for 'indirect' confessions of love.

在生活中练习

真实语境

Making a Request

  • 도와주고 싶은데...
  • 부탁이 있는데...
  • 모르겠는데...
  • 시간 있으신데...

Shopping

  • 이거 예쁜데...
  • 비싼데...
  • 다른 거 없는데...
  • 사이즈가 작은데...

Refusing an Invitation

  • 가고 싶은데...
  • 바쁜데...
  • 선약이 있는데...
  • 몸이 안 좋은데...

Expressing Surprise

  • 맛있는데!
  • 추운데!
  • 잘하는데!
  • 사람 많은데!

Reporting a Situation

  • 다 했는데...
  • 없는데...
  • 고장 났는데...
  • 전화했는데...

对话开场白

"한국 친구를 사귀고 싶은데 어떻게 해야 할까요? (I want to make Korean friends, what should I do?)"

"이 근처에 맛집이 있는데 같이 가실래요? (There's a good restaurant nearby, want to go together?)"

"한국말 공부가 어려운데 팁 좀 주시겠어요? (Studying Korean is hard, can you give me some tips?)"

"오늘 날씨가 정말 좋은데 뭐 하실 거예요? (The weather is really good today, what are you going to do?)"

"새로 나온 영화를 봤는데 정말 재미있더라고요. (I saw the new movie, and it was really fun.)"

日记主题

어제 친구를 만났는데 무슨 이야기를 했나요? (You met a friend yesterday; what did you talk about?)

사고 싶은 물건이 있는데 왜 아직 안 샀나요? (There's something you want to buy; why haven't you bought it yet?)

한국 음식을 먹어 봤는데 어땠나요? (You tried Korean food; how was it?)

열심히 노력했는데 잘 안 된 일이 있나요? (Is there something you worked hard on but didn't go well?)

가고 싶은 여행지가 있는데 그 이유는 무엇인가요? (There's a travel destination you want to go to; what's the reason?)

常见问题

10 个问题

Yes, all action verbs take ~는데 in the present tense. For descriptive verbs (adjectives), you must choose between ~ㄴ데 and ~은데 based on the final consonant.

No. While it often translates to 'but', its primary function is providing background. It can also mean 'so', 'and', or 'given that'.

No, ~는데요 is a very polite and common way to end a sentence, especially when you want to sound soft or indirect.

~니까 is a strong, objective reason. ~는데 is a softer, situational background. Use ~니까 for commands and ~는데 for requests.

Add ~었는데 or ~았는데 to the verb stem. For example, '갔는데' (I went, and/but...) or '먹었는데' (I ate, and/but...)

Yes, you can use ~겠는데 (I guess/I will...) or ~(으)ㄹ 건데 (I'm going to...). For example, '비가 오겠는데요' (It looks like it's going to rain).

It's a way to be polite and indirect. It leaves the conclusion to the listener's imagination, which is considered more considerate in Korean culture.

Yes, it's used to connect ideas and provide context in reports and essays, though other formal connectors might also be used.

Using ~는데 for adjectives (e.g., 좋는데 instead of 좋은데) or using it as a direct replacement for 'but' in every situation.

It doesn't change the basic facts, but it significantly changes the 'tone' and 'flow', making the speaker sound more natural and less robotic.

自我测试 180 个问题

writing

Translate: 'I'm hungry, let's eat.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'The weather is good, shall we go to the park?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I watched a movie, but it was boring.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I'm going to the store, do you need anything?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I want to go, but I'm busy.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I'm a student, and I live in Seoul.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'It's raining, so take an umbrella.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I called you, but you didn't answer.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'This is pretty, but it's too expensive.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I finished my homework, can I play?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I don't know the way, please help me.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'It's cold outside, come inside.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I'm busy right now, I'll call you later.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I'm a foreigner, but I speak Korean.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'The room is small, but it's okay.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I have a question, can I ask?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I'm looking for a friend, have you seen him?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'The food is delicious, try some.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I'm tired, so I'll go home.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I studied hard, but the test was hard.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I'm hungry, let's go eat.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'The weather is good, shall we walk?'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I'm a student.' (using ~인데)

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I watched a movie yesterday.' (as background)

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I'm busy right now.' (politely trailing off)

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'It's raining, do you have an umbrella?'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'This is delicious!' (with surprise)

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I don't know.' (politely)

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I finished my homework.' (as background)

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I'm going to the store.' (as background)

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'It's cold.' (with surprise)

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I have a question.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I'm a foreigner.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I'm looking for a friend.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I called you.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I'm tired.' (politely)

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'The room is small.' (as background)

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I'm busy.' (as background)

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'It's pretty.' (with surprise)

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I'm hungry.' (as background)

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '비가 오는데 우산 있어요?'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '배고픈데 뭐 먹을까요?'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '지금 바쁜데 나중에 전화할게요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '어제 영화 봤는데 재미있었어요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '이거 맛있는데 더 드세요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '길을 모르는데 좀 도와주세요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '숙제 다 했는데 놀아도 돼요?'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '날씨가 좋은데 공원에 가요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '돈이 없는데 어떡하죠?'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '제 친구인데 인사하세요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '이 옷 예쁜데 너무 비싸요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '전화했는데 안 받으셨어요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '시간 있으면 영화 볼까요?' (using 는데)

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '외국인인데 한국말 잘하시네요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '추운데 안으로 들어오세요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

有帮助吗?
还没有评论。成为第一个分享想法的人!