Definition
若是 (ruò shì) is a formal, literary conjunction meaning 'if', used mainly in writing or classical-style speech. It is more elevated than 要是 (yào shi, everyday spoken), similar in register to 倘若 (tǎng ruò) and 假使 (jiǎ shǐ), and slightly more explicit than the single character 若 (ruò).
conjunction
if (formal, literary)
Easily confused
- 弱势ruò shìsound-alikevulnerable; disadvantaged (position or group)
Examples
- 若是，。ruò shì nǐ tóngyì, wǒmen jiù àn jìhuà jìnxíng.If you agree, we will proceed according to the plan.
- 若是，。ruò shì míngtiān bú xià yǔ, wǒmen jiù qù páshān.If it doesn't rain tomorrow, we will go hiking.
- 若是，。ruò shì tā lái le, qǐng ràng tā děng yíxià.If he comes, please ask him to wait.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.