Dictionary — Entry No. 0842
하지만
hajiman-adj · conjunction
하지만
hajiman-adj
[hah-JEE-man]
conjunctionbeginner
Meaning
Formal conjunction meaning ‘but’ or ‘however’ that introduces a stronger or more definitive contrast. More serious and emphatic than 그런데, marking a significant shift in argument or emotion.
K-Pop & K-Drama Context
The literary/formal version of 그런데, used in K-Drama monologues, official statements, and when expressing serious disagreement. K-Pop idols use this in formal interviews or when discussing serious topics like mental health or industry criticism. It carries weight and sincerity.
Example Sentences
열심히 했습니다. 하지만 부족했어요.
yeolsimhi haesseumnida. hajiman busokhaesseo-yo.
I worked hard. However, it wasn’t enough. (formal regret)
그 방법도 좋습니다. 하지만 더 나은 길이 있어요.
geu bangbeobdo johseumnida. hajiman deo naeun gili isseo-yo.
That method is also good. But there’s a better way. (formal suggestion)
미안합니다. 하지만 다시는 안 할 거예요.
mianhamnida. hajiman dasi-neun an hal geoyeyo.
I apologize. However, I won’t do it again. (formal commitment)
⚠️ Don’t use hajiman-adj when…
하지만 is formal/literary—never use in casual text with friends or it sounds pretentious. Don’t use in K-Pop fan tweets. Save for serious discussions, apologies, or when you mean to sound dignified.
🎵 Heard In
- K-Drama: Boys Over Flowers — Gu Jun-pyo says ‘좋아, 하지만…’ when his pride clashes with his feelings for Geum Jan-di, marking internal conflict.
- K-Pop: BTS — In formal UN speech and serious interviews about social issues, members use 하지만 to emphasize important contrasts.
ℹ️ Editorial Note: The cultural context and example usage are for educational reference only. Artist names, song titles, and drama references are used descriptively to illustrate vocabulary in context. This content is AI-assisted and reviewed for accuracy. For official information, please refer to the respective artists’ or studios’ official channels.