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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'just' or 'only' with 只是 (zhǐshì)

    Connecting Ideas
    Degree & Intensity

    Structure

    只是 + Clause

    Explanation

    The conjunction 只是 (zhǐshì) means 'just,' 'only,' or 'it's just that.' It is used to introduce a mild contrast, limitation, or qualification to a previous statement. Unlike 但是, it carries a softer, more understated tone.

    Examples

    • 这道菜味道不错，只是有点儿咸了。

      Zhè dào cài wèidào búcuò, zhǐshì yǒu diǎnr xián le.

      This dish tastes pretty good; it's just a little too salty.

    • 我想去旅行，只是最近太忙了。

      Wǒ xiǎng qù lǚxíng, zhǐshì zuìjìn tài máng le.

      I want to travel; it's just that I've been too busy lately.

    • 他人很好，只是说话太直接了。

      Tā rén hěn hǎo, zhǐshì shuōhuà tài zhíjiē le.

      He's a nice person; he's just too blunt when he speaks.

    Often Confused With

    Expressing 'just' or 'only' with 只是 (zhǐshì) | Chinese Grammar