Chinese · Common Verbs
是
shì
To be
Beginnerverb
Definition
The verb used to link a subject with what it is.
Example
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.