是⋯⋯的
shì …… de
The "shi… de" construction for indicating purpose
是…的 also explains what something is for, or why you came.
Subj. + 是 + Verb Phrase + 的
How it works
我是来上海旅游的 — I'm in Shanghai to travel. The purpose sits between 是 and 的.
It works for objects as well: 这个是喝茶的 — this is for drinking tea.
The pattern presents the purpose as the whole point, which is why it's the natural answer to "what are you here for?"
Examples
wǒ shì lái shàng hǎi lǚ yóu de
我是来上海旅游的。
I came to Shanghai to travel.
zhè ge bēi zi shì hē chá de
这个杯子是喝茶的。
This cup is for tea.
tā shì lái bāng máng de
他是来帮忙的。
He's here to help.