-지만 vs -기는 하지만 / -기는 -지만
Compare Korean contrast endings -지만 and -기는 하지만 / -긴 하지만 for everyday vs concessive nuance.
Quick takeaway
-지만 is the basic “but.” -기는 하지만 concedes a point more explicitly (“it is true that…, but…”) and often softens disagreement.
-지만
But / Although
Attached to a verb or adjective stem to contrast the preceding clause with the following clause. It shows opposing or contrary information.
When to use it
Simple contrast between two clauses.
Examples
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그 식당은 비싸지만 아주 맛있습니다.
That restaurant is expensive but very delicious.
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어제는 비가 왔지만 오늘은 날씨가 맑아요.
It rained yesterday, but the weather is clear today.
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매일 운동을 하지만 살이 안 빠져요.
I exercise every day, but I don't lose weight.
-기는 하지만 / -기는 -지만
It's true that... but / Granted... but
Used to first acknowledge or concede a fact, then contrast it with an opposing or qualifying statement. The speaker admits the first part is true while emphasizing that the second part is also true.
When to use it
Acknowledging the other side first, then disagreeing or adding a catch.
Examples
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그 식당 음식이 맛있기는 하지만 가격이 너무 비싸요.
That restaurant's food is good, granted, but the prices are too expensive.
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한국어를 배우기는 배웠지만 아직 잘 못해요.
I did learn Korean, but I still can't do it well.
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집이 넓기는 한데 역에서 너무 멀어요.
The house is spacious, granted, but it's too far from the station.