Intermediate
Estimated read: 3 mins
-는 것은 아니다
Used to partially deny a presupposition — to clarify that something is not entirely true, without fully agreeing or disagreeing.
Summary
Equivalent
It's not that... / It's not the case that...
Also: -지는 않다 (Softer negative emphasis)
Grammar rules
- Sets up a nuanced denial.
- The speaker acknowledges the premise but corrects it: 'It's not that I hate it — I just find it difficult.'
Patterns
1
Verbs (Partial Denial)
Present · Verb Stem + 는 것은 아니다
2
Adjectives (Partial Denial)
Present · Adj Stem + (으)ㄴ 것은 아니다
Example sentences
Verbs (Partial Denial) · Present · Verb Stem + 는 것은 아니다
It's not that I'm lying, but it's difficult to say everything.
제가 거짓말을 하는 것은 아니지만 전부 말하기 어려워요.
Verbs (Partial Denial) · Present · Verb Stem + 는 것은 아니다
It's not that I dislike it, I'm just not used to it.
싫은 것은 아닌데 그냥 익숙하지 않아서요.
Conversation
Practice
Fill in the blank
Partially deny the presupposition.
Not angry.
Not boring.