Definition
乃是 is a formal, literary copula meaning 'to be', used in written Chinese and formal speech to add emphasis or a classical tone. It is a more elevated equivalent of 是 and often appears in news, essays, and official statements. In casual conversation, 是 is preferred.
v.
to be (formal, literary, often with emphasis)
Examples
- 乃是。Zhè nǎi shì yí gè zhòngyào de zhuǎnzhédiǎn.This is an important turning point.
- 乃是。Tā nǎi shì wǒ guó zuì yōuxiù de yùndòngyuán zhī yī.He is one of the best athletes in our country.
- 乃是。Xuéxí nǎi shì zhōngshēn de shìyè.Learning is a lifelong career.
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