不失为…
can still be counted as …; is, after all, a …
Structure
主语 不失为 （一＋量词＋）名词
What it means
A measured, positive verdict: whatever its faults, it still counts as something good. Literally “does not fail to be” (失 = to lose).
How it is built
（虽然…，但／却）+ subject + 不失为 + 一个／一种／一条 + noun: 坐高铁虽然慢一点儿，但不失为一个省钱的办法 (the train is a bit slower, but still a good way to save money).
When to use it
Mild praise in reviews, reports and argument, often after a concession. For high praise use 堪称 (8-23).
Watch out
Takes a noun phrase, not an adjective: ✗不失为好 ✓不失为一个好办法. Keep 为; do not swap in 是: ✗不失是一个好办法.
Examples
这本书不失为了解当时中国的一扇窗。
The book can still be counted a window on the China of its day.
坐高铁去上海虽然比坐飞机慢一点儿，但不失为一个省钱的办法。
Taking the high-speed train to Shanghai is a little slower than flying, but it is still a good way to save money.
他的方案不算完美，却不失为眼下最稳妥的选择。
His plan isn’t perfect, but it is still the safest choice for now.
Learn this in Lesson 252 · HSK 9+: 林语堂《吾国与吾民》 (Lin Yutang’s My Country and My People)
A dialogue, a reading, word cards with audio and a drill that uses it, in Learn Chinese with Bao. The first lessons of every level are free.
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