Korean phrase
~ 때문이 아니라 ~ 때문이에요. ~ ttae mu ni a ni ra ~ ttae mu ni e yo
Meaning
not because ___ but because ___
When to use it
The phrase rejects one reason and gives a different reason. It is a polite, gentle way to explain a motive or clear up a misunderstanding.
Example dialogue
운동을 시작한 건 살 빼려고 때문이 아니라 건강을 위해서 때문이에요. un dong eul si ja kan keon sal ppae ryeo go ttae mu ni a ni ra keon gang eul wi hae seo ttae mu ni e yo
I started working out not to lose weight, but for my health.
아, 그렇군요. 응원할게요. a keu reo ku nyo eung won hal kke yo
Oh, I see. I'll support you.