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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'right and wrong' or 'dispute' with 是非 (shìfēi)

    Comparison
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    是非 + Noun; Verb + 是非

    Explanation

    是非 (shìfēi) literally combines 是 (right/yes) and 非 (wrong/no) to mean "right and wrong" or, by extension, "dispute" or "gossip." It is often used in set phrases and idioms, such as 是非分明 (clear distinction between right and wrong) or 惹是非 (to stir up trouble).

    Examples

    • 她从来不在背后说别人的是非。

      tā cónglái bù zài bèihòu shuō biérén de shìfēi.

      She never talks about others behind their backs.

    • 做人要是非分明，不能糊里糊涂的。

      zuòrén yào shìfēi fēnmíng, bù néng húlihútú de.

      One should have a clear sense of right and wrong and not be muddleheaded.

    • 你别去惹是非了，安安静静待着吧。

      nǐ bié qù rě shìfēi le, ānān jìngjìng dāi zhe ba.

      Don't go stirring up trouble; just stay quiet.

    Expressing 'right and wrong' or 'dispute' with 是非 (shìfēi) | Chinese Grammar