The “。。。是。。。不过。。。” construction

Question 1

What is the function of the “。。。是。。。不过。。。” construction?

Answer 1

(a) to state or confirm a fact before transitioning to a “but” clause.

Question 2

Chinese dishes are delicious, but they have too much oil.

Answer 2

中国菜好吃是好吃，不过油太多。

Question 3

This shirt is attractive, but too expensive.

Answer 3

这件衬衣好看是好看，不过太贵了。