HSK 6
不是⋯⋯，还/还是⋯⋯
bú shì ⋯ ⋯ ， hái / hái shì ⋯ ⋯
不是…，还/还是…
Explanation
不是…，还/还是… is a progressive compound sentence (a sentence with two or more clauses, where the second clause advances one step beyond the first). The first clause negates a simple assumption, and the second clause adds what still must be done or considered.
不是 (bú shì, it is not that) + (a simple assumption, often with 就 jiù = then/is) + ，还 (hái, still/also) / 还是 (hái shì, still) + (the added thing that must be done).
不是读完了就可以了，还应该写作文 = it's not that once you finish reading you're done; you also have to write an essay.
when you want to warn or remind that the matter is not as simple as the listener thinks, that there are other requirements/steps. 还 leans toward "still have to do more," 还是 leans toward "still should/still must" (advice).
不是 here negates a whole clause ("it's not that the matter... is done"), and beginners often break off 不是 and ask "isn't it?" Do not confuse it with the alternative pair 不是…就是… (if not this then that); here the second clause is an addition, not a choice.
Examples
It's not that finishing reading is enough; you also have to write an essay.
This matter isn't something you can do just because you want to; you still have to listen to the boss's opinion first.
Practice
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Learn “不是⋯⋯，还/还是⋯⋯” effectively
The grammar point “不是⋯⋯，还/还是⋯⋯” (不是…，还/还是…) is one of the key structures at HSK 6. 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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