-는데
-neunde
and; but; so (background)
Connects a clause that sets up background or context relevant to what follows, often implying a contrast. As a sentence-final ending it expresses admiration while expecting a reaction, or asks a question expecting a specific answer.
Form
- Attaches to
- Verb, Adjective, 이다, Auxiliary
- Other shapes
- -은데 · -ㄴ데
Meanings
- 1
A connective ending used to talk in advance about a situation to follow.
뒤의 말을 하기 위하여 그 대상과 관련이 있는 상황을 미리 말함을 나타내는 연결 어미.
- 2
(informal addressee-lowering) A sentence-final ending used to admire something while anticipating the listener's response.
(두루낮춤으로) 듣는 사람의 반응을 기대하며 어떤 일에 대해 감탄함을 나타내는 종결 어미.
- 3
A sentence-final ending used to ask for a certain answer.
일정한 대답을 요구하며 물어보는 뜻을 나타내는 종결 어미.
※ 의문사와 함께 쓴다.
Examples
차가 뜨거운데 금방 식으니까 마실 만할 거야.
The tea is hot, but it'll cool down soon, so it should be drinkable.
우리 조금 출출한데 간단한 음식이라도 먹을까?
We're a bit hungry, should we eat something simple?
이 옷은 예쁜데 얇아서 날이 따뜻할 때 입어야겠다.
This piece of clothing is pretty, but it's thin, so I should wear it when it's warm out.
이 작품은 아주 훌륭한데.
This work is really excellent!
너희 아버지는 굉장히 멋있으신데.
Your father is incredibly handsome!
저 여배우는 화면보다 실물이 훨씬 예쁜데?
That actress is way prettier in person than on screen!
Examples: 한국어기초사전, CC BY-SA 2.0 KR.
Don’t confuse with
Forms with a close meaning — a favourite source of wrong answers on TOPIK.
Quick check
1. What does ‘-는데’ mean?
2. Which form means “and; but; so (background)”?