Definitions
(verb)
to be; is; are; am
(particle)
yes; correct; right
Etymology
Origin unclear. The bottom component 止 represents the sound.
About
The character "是" is structurally composed of "日" positioned above "正", a configuration that reflects its etymological association with the concept of correctness directed toward the sun. Originally conveying notions of straightness or rightness, it was used in classical Chinese primarily as a demonstrative meaning "this" or as an adjective meaning "correct". Over time, its function shifted from indicating affirmation to serving as a copula, a change that led to its modern usage as the primary verb meaning "to be".
Example Sentences Hide
这是我的书。
他是我的爸爸。
北京是中国的首都。
学习是很重要的。
她是我最好的朋友。
这本书是很有趣的。
我们的目标是赢得比赛。
他之所以成功是因为努力。