Correct an assumption with 不是……而是……
不是……而是……
How it works
This pattern rejects one description and replaces it with another. The two parts should be parallel enough for the listener to understand exactly what is being corrected.
It differs from a simple contrast with 但是. You are not merely adding an unexpected fact: you are saying that the first account is the wrong one.
The pattern
Example sentences
这不是考试，而是练习。
This is practice, not an exam.
他不是不想去，而是没有时间。
It is not that he does not want to go; he has no time.
Pinyin generally shows citation tones; tones can change in connected speech.
What to watch for
Keep the logical target of the correction clear. In 不是不想去, the speaker rejects the claim that he does not want to go.
Try it
Correct “考试” to “练习” using 不是……而是…….
Show answer
这不是考试，而是练习。 Zhè bù shì kǎoshì, ér shì liànxí. This is practice, not an exam.
Syllabus reference
The topic is listed in the official 2025 syllabus. The explanation, examples and practice on this page are written for SenMandarin.
SenMandarin · Updated 2026-10-22