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How to Say ‘No’ in Traditional Chinese

不是

bù shì

[bù shir]

💬 Usage Tip: 是 has a falling tone, so 不 before it rises: (bú shì).

Phrase Breakdown

不

bù

[bù]

not

Used to express negation, denial, or refusal.

Example

他不想去參加晚會。

He doesn't want to attend the party.

是

shì

[shir]

to be

The verb 'to be,' often used in identities or simple statements.

Example

他也是常來這裡的人。

He is also someone who often comes here.

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