아니, 근데

wait, but

→ 아니

phrase Uncommon #15,519

wait, but A casual conversational opener used to introduce a question, objection, or surprised reaction; 아니 often works as an attention-getting filler rather than a literal “no.”

KO: 아니, 근데 너 오늘 왜 이렇게 일찍 왔어?

EN: Wait, but why did you come so early today?

아니, 근데 왜 안양을 가?

No, but why are you going to Anyang?

— The Chaser (2008)

아니, 근데 죄지은 게 없는데 왜 이렇게 떨려?

I mean, I haven’t done anything wrong, so why am I shaking so much?

— Miracle in Cell No. 7 (2013)

아니, 근데 진짜 궁금해서 그러는데 여, 이, 물건은 이게 다 입니까?

No, I’m just genuinely curious, but, um, is this all you have?

— Night in Paradise (2020)

아니, 근데 그게 나 아니여?

Wait, isn't that me?

— Good News (2025)

아니, 근데 모베르가 샀어

No, but Mober bought it.

— 히든 (2005)