Core Grammar Rule: ~에 비하여 (In Comparison To)
This pattern is used to compare two nouns. It's a bit more formal than the basic comparison particle '~보다' and is often used when making objective comparisons or referring to a standard.
Meaning & Usage
Meaning: It translates to "in comparison to," "compared with," or "as opposed to." It sets up the first noun as the benchmark against which the second noun is being evaluated.
When to use: Use it when you want to highlight the difference between two things. It's common in both written Korean (news articles, reports) and spoken Korean, especially in polite or formal conversations where you are presenting facts or well-considered opinions. For example, comparing this year's sales to last year's, or comparing the cost of living in two different cities.
Conjugation Rules
Rule: This grammar is very simple. You just attach '~에 비하여' directly after a noun. It doesn't matter if the noun ends in a vowel or a consonant.
Example:
서울 (Seoul) + 에 비하여 → 서울에 비하여 (Compared to Seoul)
작년 (last year) + 에 비하여 → 작년에 비하여 (Compared to last year)
Spoken Form: In casual conversation, it's often shortened to '~에 비해'. For example, '서울에 비해'.
Noun + 에 비하여
Core Grammar Rule: ~(으)ㄹ거니와 (Not Only... But Also...)
This connective ending is used to add another fact or quality to the one already mentioned in the first clause. It emphasizes that both points are true and noteworthy, and they usually support the same overall idea.
Meaning & Usage
Meaning: It means "not only... but also..." or "and what's more...". It connects two clauses that list positive attributes or facts about the same subject.
When to use: Use it when you want to make a persuasive point by listing multiple strengths. It's slightly more formal or literary than simply connecting sentences with '그리고' (and), so it adds a bit of emphasis and sophistication. You'll hear it in presentations, debates, or when someone is passionately explaining the benefits of something.
Conjugation Rules