TOPIK 1Particles
은/는 vs 이/가
Topic Marker (은/는) vs Subject Marker (이/가)
Particles that mark the topic or subject of a sentence
Description
은/는 marks the topic (what the sentence is about), while 이/가 marks the subject (who/what does the action). 은 follows consonants, 는 follows vowels. 이 follows consonants, 가 follows vowels.
Usage
Use 은/는 for general statements, contrast, or introducing topics. Use 이/가 for new information, emphasis, or answering 'who/what' questions.
Formation Rules
- 1Noun ending in consonant + 은/이
- 2Noun ending in vowel + 는/가
Tips
- 💡은/는 often implies comparison or contrast with something else
- 💡이/가 emphasizes the subject as new or important information
- 💡In answers to questions, use 이/가 to identify the subject
Example Sentences
저는 학생이에요.
Jeoneun haksaeng-ieyo.
I am a student. (As for me, I'm a student)
누가 왔어요? 선생님이 왔어요.
Nuga wasseoyo? Seonsaengnimi wasseoyo.
Who came? The teacher came.
오늘은 날씨가 좋아요.
Oneureun nalssiga joayo.
Today, the weather is nice. (As for today, the weather is nice)
Related Patterns
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