是 (shì)
verb · Beginner · Common Verbs
Meaning
English: To be
The verb used to link a subject with what it is.
Examples
🗣 我是英国人。
💬 I am British.
Etymology
‘是’ (shì) is derived from ancient Chinese verbs indicating existence or affirmation. It forms a fundamental part of sentence structure in Mandarin Chinese.
How & Where It’s Used
‘是’ is used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate identity or categorization. It is prevalent in spoken and written language.
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Tags: verb, essential