Meaning and Usage
더구나 is a conjunctive adverb used to add information that strengthens or emphasizes the previous statement. It means "moreover," "furthermore," or "what's more." It is often used in spoken and written Korean to connect two related ideas, where the second idea adds weight or an additional reason.
Common Contexts
You will frequently hear 더구나 in everyday conversations, news reports, and formal writing when the speaker wants to emphasize an additional point that supports or intensifies the previous statement.
Collocations and Patterns
- 더구나 + clause: to add an additional fact or reason
- 늦었어요. 더구나 약속도 잊었어요. (He was late. Moreover, he forgot the appointment.)
Register and Politeness
더구나 is neutral in politeness and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is more formal than 그냥 "just" or 그리고 "and," making it suitable for written language and polite speech.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 더구나 with 그리고 (and) or 게다가 (besides). While all add information, 더구나 often implies a stronger emphasis or a more surprising addition than 그리고. 게다가 is very similar but can be slightly more casual. Remember, 더구나 is best when you want to stress the additional point strongly.