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HSK 4

不是⋯⋯，而是⋯⋯

Not... but rather...

Explanation

This structure is used to deny one thing and affirm another that is actually the case. It is equivalent to 'Not... but rather...' in English. Example: '我不是不想去，而是没时间' means 'It's not that I don't want to go, but rather that I don't have time'. It is often used to explain or clearly distinguish between two ideas.

Examples

我不是不想去，而是没时间。
wǒbúshìbùxiǎngqù，érshìméishíjiān。
这不是我的书，而是他的。
zhèbúshìwǒdeshū，érshìtāde。
这件事错的不是我，而是他。
zhèjiànshìcuòdebúshìwǒ，érshìtā。

Learn “不是⋯⋯，而是⋯⋯” effectively

The grammar point “不是⋯⋯，而是⋯⋯” (Not... but rather...) is one of the key structures at HSK 4. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.

Study tip: read the examples aloud many times to build a natural reflex. Then try making your own sentences for your own situations. Use the audio button to hear and practice accurate pronunciation.

You can also view the full “” lesson to understand the related grammar and vocabulary more deeply.

Frequently asked questions