Definition
别是 is a fixed expression used at the beginning of a sentence or clause to express a worried conjecture or suspicion. It functions like 'could it be that...' in English, often implying the speaker fears a negative possibility. Unlike 可能 (kěnéng) which is neutral, 别是 carries a tone of concern.
v.p.
(fixed phrase) could it be that...it may be that... (expressing worried conjecture)
Examples
- 别是?bié tā chū shì le?Could it be that something happened to him?
- 别是?bié yàoshi wàng zài jiā lǐ le?Could it be that I left the keys at home?
- 别是?bié tā bù lái le?Could it be that she's not coming?
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