apparently right but actually wrong; specious (idiom)
HSK 7, unknown, rank #35367, Very Hard
sìshìérfēi(si4shi4er2fei1) T4
1apparently right but actually wrong; specious (idiom)
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March 24, 2026
似是而非()sìshìérfēi(si4shi4er2fei1)
The idiom 似是而非 describes a situation where something seems to be correct or plausible at first glance but is, in fact, incorrect or misleading. It is often used to caution against taking things at face value and encourages deeper analysis.
Frequency#35367DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 似是而非 aligns with the importance of discernment in communication and decision-making, especially in business and politics, where appearances can be deceptive.
Memory Tip
Imagine a magician performing a trick that looks real (似是) but is merely an illusion (而非). The contrast of reality and illusion can help you remember that this idiom refers to something that seems right but is not.
Meanings of 似是而非
sìshìérfēi(si4shi4er2fei1)
1apparently right but actually wrong; specious (idiom)
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 似是而非
似是而非Simplified
Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 似是而非
Podcast: 似是而非
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AI Study Notes for 似是而非
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a magician performing a trick that looks real (似是) but is merely an illusion (而非). The contrast of reality and illusion can help you remember that this idiom refers to something that seems right but is not.
Usage Notes
Use 似是而非 in contexts where you want to highlight misleading arguments or appearances. Common mistakes include confusing it with terms that mean 'correct' or 'true.' It's more formal, so avoid using it in casual conversations.
HSK Study Tips
While this idiom may not appear in HSK levels, it enriches vocabulary for advanced learners. Focus on understanding the nuances of seemingly correct statements and their implications in discussions and debates.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 似是而非 aligns with the importance of discernment in communication and decision-making, especially in business and politics, where appearances can be deceptive.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 似是而非 to imply something is simply incorrect rather than misleading. For example, saying '这个答案似是而非' (This answer is apparently right and wrong) should be corrected to indicate the misleading quality: '这个答案似是而非，表面上看是对的，但实际上不对.'
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 似是而非
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Cultural Notes for 似是而非
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of 似是而非 aligns with the importance of discernment in communication and decision-making, especially in business and politics, where appearances can be deceptive.
Frequently Asked Questions about 似是而非
Yes, it is suitable for describing opinions or arguments that seem valid but are ultimately flawed.
It's more commonly found in formal writing or discussions rather than casual speech.
You might use phrases like '表面上正确' (apparently correct) to convey a similar meaning.
