是shì

Affirmative sentence with 是 (shì)

Meaning: To be (identity, profession, nationality)

Pattern

In Chinese, 是 (shì) is one of the most important verbs at the HSK 1 level.
It links a subject with a noun or noun phrase, functioning like “to be” in English.
The basic structure is: Subject + 是 + Noun/Noun Phrase.
A crucial rule to remember is that 是 is NOT used before adjectives in simple descriptive sentences.
To say “I am tall”, saying 我是高 (Wǒ shì gāo) is INCORRECT; the correct sentence is 我很高 (Wǒ hěn gāo).

•Negative: 不是 (bú shì). Question: 是...吗? or 是不是? Do not use 是 before adjectives.

⚠️ Common Mistakes:

•Using 是 before an adjective: WRONG 我是高 → RIGHT 我很高.

•Forgetting the tone sandhi of 不 before 是: pronounce it “bú shì”, not “bù shì”.

Combine Vocabulary, Grammar, Reading Practice, Listening, Hanzi Writing, and Mock Exams at HSK 1 to master all skills together.