HSK 7-9
X（倒）是X（了），……
X (dào) shì X (le),...
X is X indeed, but... (concessive)
Structure
X (倒) 是 X (了)，但是/就是/不过 ……
How it works
This structure is used to express a concession where the speaker acknowledges a positive or certain fact, but then introduces a counterpoint, limitation, or negative aspect in the following clause. The word '倒' is optional but adds a nuance of 'all things considered' or 'actually,' while '了' often appears if the quality is perceived as completed or inherent.
Examples
房子的位置倒是挺好的，就是租金太贵了。
Fángzi de wèizhì dào shì tǐng hǎo de, jiùshì zūjīn tài guì le.
The location of the house is indeed quite good, but the rent is just too expensive.
计划详细是详细了，可不一定能落实。
Jìhuà xiángxì shì xiángxì le, kě bù yīdìng néng luòshí.
The plan is detailed enough, but it might not necessarily be implemented.
去倒是想去，只是最近实在抽不出时间。
Qù dào shì xiǎng qù, zhǐshì zuìjìn shízài chōu bù chū shíjiān.
I do want to go, it's just that I really can't find the time lately.
Common mistakes
Forgetting to repeat the same word for 'X' or using different synonyms, which breaks the specific rhetorical structure of this pattern.
Tip
Think of this as the Chinese equivalent of 'It is what it is, BUT...'. Use it when you want to sound polite or objective before delivering a criticism or a 'no'.
More HSK 7-9 grammar
See X（倒）是X（了），…… in real Chinese
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