to be; yes; correct
The character 是 (shì) is written with 9 strokes. To write it correctly, follow the standard Chinese stroke order: start from top to bottom, left to right, and outside before inside. The radical 日 is one of its key components.
Practicing the correct stroke order helps you memorize the character faster and write more naturally. Use the Hanzi Writer app below to see an animated stroke-by-stroke guide and practice with real-time feedback.
是 is pronounced shì in Mandarin Chinese. It means to be; yes; correct.
As an HSK Level 1 character, 是 is among the first 150 words that beginners learn. You will encounter it frequently in everyday Chinese conversations, reading materials, and beginner textbooks.
Here are common Chinese words and phrases that contain the character 是:
See how 是 (shì) is used in real Chinese sentences:
是的,我知道。
shì de wǒ zhī dào
Yes, I know.
他是我的老师。
tā shì wǒ de lǎo shī
He is my teacher.
你是不是学生?
nǐ shì bú shì xué shēng
Are you a student?
Open Hanzi Writer to see the animated stroke order and practice writing 是 with real-time feedback. Master the correct stroke sequence step by step.