Conceding a point with "shi"

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When conceding a point, we often put emphasis on the point we are conceding, and in Chinese there is a way to do that with 是 (shì).

Structure

"...是..., 但是..." (...shì..., dànshì...) is a pattern often used in an argument or debate. It's usually indicating that the speaker is conceding a point, but they still have some reservations about the topic at hand. Don't worry, the examples will make this clear.

Adjective + 是 + Adjective + 但是……

Examples

  • 中国 的 产品 便宜 便宜但是 质量 不 太 好。Chinese goods may be cheap, but their quality isn't very good.
  • 这 个 东西 但是 太 贵 了。This thing is good, but it isn't cheap.
  • 这 种 车 但是 不 安全。This car is fast, but it isn't safe.
  • 我 的 老师 教 得 但是作业 太多。My math teacher teaches well,but the assignments are too much.

See also

Sources and further reading

Books

HSK4