HSK 5
或是⋯⋯，或是⋯⋯
huò shì ⋯ ⋯ ， huò shì ⋯ ⋯
Either…, or…
Explanation
或是……，或是…… is a pair of conjunctions (a pair of words linking clauses) forming a compound sentence of choice (a sentence with two or more clauses, presenting alternatives to choose from).
或是 huòshì + [alternative A]，或是 huòshì + [alternative B]. Meaning: "either A or B". e.g. 或是哥哥做的，或是弟弟做的 = either the older brother did it, or the younger brother did it.
When listing two (or more) possibilities of which only one is true/will happen, used in declarative sentences. 或是 leans slightly toward formal/written usage; in everyday speech 或者 (huòzhě) is often used.
或是/或者 (either... or) is used for declarative sentences (presenting possibilities); whereas 还是 (háishì, or) is used in QUESTIONS to make the listener choose (你喝茶还是喝咖啡? — do you drink tea or coffee?). This is where Vietnamese learners get confused the most.
Using 或是 in a choice question (wrong: 你或是喝茶或是喝咖啡? when asking). A question must use 还是. 或是 is used only when stating possibilities in a declarative sentence.
Examples
This matter was either done by the older brother or by the younger brother.
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Practice
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Learn “或是⋯⋯，或是⋯⋯” effectively
The grammar point “或是⋯⋯，或是⋯⋯” (Either…, or…) is one of the key structures at HSK 5. 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.
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