HSK 7-9
所谓……，就是……
suǒwèi..., jiùshì...
The so-called...refers to...
Structure
所谓 + [Term/Concept], 就是 + [Definition/Explanation]
How it works
This structure is used to provide a formal definition or clarification of a term, concept, or phenomenon. '所谓' introduces the specific term being defined, while '就是' precedes the explanation or the essence of that term.
Examples
所谓成功，就是即便经历了无数次失败，依然保持创业的热情。
Suǒwèi chénggōng, jiùshì jíbiàn jīnglì le wúshù cì shībài, yīrán bǎochí chuàngyè de rèqíng.
The so-called success is to maintain entrepreneurial passion even after experiencing countless failures.
所谓真正的友谊，就是在对方最困难的时候伸出援手。
Suǒwèi zhēnzhèng de yǒuyì, jiùshì zài duìfāng zuì kùnnán de shíhòu shēnchū yuánshǒu.
What is meant by true friendship is lending a helping hand when the other person is in their greatest difficulty.
所谓人工智能，就是利用计算机程序来模拟人类的智能行为。
Suǒwèi réngōng zhìnéng, jiùshì lìyòng jìsuànjī chéngxù lái mónǐ rénlèi de zhìnéng xíngwéi.
The so-called artificial intelligence refers to the use of computer programs to simulate human intelligent behavior.
Common mistakes
Do not treat '所谓' as a negative or sarcastic term only; while it can imply skepticism in some contexts, in this grammatical structure, it is primarily used for neutral, objective definitions.
Tip
Use this structure in academic writing or formal speeches to establish a clear premise by defining key terms at the beginning of your argument.
More HSK 7-9 grammar
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