HSK 6
X是X
X shì X
The structure 'X is X' (X是X)
Explanation
This is the colloquial structure (used in speech) "X是X" (X shì X), in which X is repeated twice with 是 (shì) in the middle, used to concede that something is indeed true before raising an opposing point afterward, similar to "... is ... alright, but..." in English.
X + 是 (shì) + X + ，就是/但/可是 (jiù shì / dàn / kě shì) + limiting point → "... is ... alright, but/however...". For example: 漂亮是漂亮，但太贵了 (piào liang shì piào liang, dàn tài guì le, it's pretty alright, but too expensive).
when you want to concede, acknowledging a good side (or a fact) first, then raise a concern or limitation in the second clause. X is usually an adjective or a verb.
Vietnamese learners tend to use two different words in the two halves (for example 漂亮是好看) — this is wrong, because X must be repeated identically. They also often forget the turning clause (但/就是) afterward, which leaves the "X是X" sentence hanging and loses its concessive meaning.
Examples
Go I did go, it's just that I don't know how it turned out.
Good it is good, but I don't know whether the teacher will agree to us doing this.
This piece of clothing is pretty alright, but it's also way too expensive.
Practice
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Learn “X是X” effectively
The grammar point “X是X” (The structure 'X is X' (X是X)) 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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