-거니와

Meaning / Usage

-거니와 is a connective ending that acknowledges or establishes the information in the first clause and then adds another related point in the second clause. The second point gives further information and often strengthens the speaker’s overall description or argument.

Depending on the context, it can mean “not only…, but also…,” “besides,” “moreover,” or “while it is true that…, also…” It has a somewhat formal or literary feeling, although it can still appear in careful conversation.

Do not confuse -거니와 with -거나. -거나 presents alternatives such as “or,” while -거니와 adds one related fact to another.

Conjugation

Attach -거니와 to the stem of an action verb or descriptive verb. With a noun, attach it to 이다, producing 이거니와.

Type	Base form	Form
Action verb	먹다	먹거니와
Action verb	오다	오거니와
Descriptive verb	작다	작거니와
Descriptive verb	크다	크거니와
Noun + 이다	학생	학생이거니와
Noun + 이다	의사	의사이거니와

Example Sentences

1. 제 동생은 공부도 잘하거니와 성격도 좋아요.
   My younger sibling not only studies well but also has a good personality.

2. 여기는 전망도 좋거니와 월세도 저렴하다.
   This place not only has a good view, but the rent is also inexpensive.

3. 이 대학은 비싼 등록금도 문제이거니와 기숙사비도 많이 든다.
   At this university, not only is the expensive tuition a problem, but dormitory costs are also high.

4. 이 가방은 디자인도 예쁘거니와 가벼워서 들고 다니기 편해요.
   This bag not only has a pretty design but is also light and easy to carry.

5. 김 선생님은 경험이 많은 의사이거니와 환자의 이야기도 잘 들어 주십니다.
   Dr. Kim is not only an experienced doctor but also listens carefully to patients.

6. 그 식당은 음식이 맛있거니와 직원들도 아주 친절해요.
   That restaurant not only serves delicious food, but its staff are also very kind.