Shifting Topics with 'As for' ({至于|zhìyú})
{至于|zhìyú} at the start of a sentence to smoothly transition to a different related topic.
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Use {至于|zhìyú} to gracefully pivot your conversation to a new, related topic.
- Place {至于|zhìyú} at the start of a clause to introduce a new subject: {至于|zhìyú}他，我不太了解。
- Use it to contrast or separate topics: {这|zhè}个{计划|jìhuà}很好，{至于|zhìyú}预算，我们再讨论。
- It functions as a transition, not a direct question word.
Overview
In the Chinese language, structuring information logically is paramount. One fundamental aspect of this is how speakers introduce, shift, and elaborate on topics within a conversation or discourse. The particle 至于 (zhìyú) serves as a crucial linguistic tool for this very purpose.
Translating primarily to "as for," "regarding," or "when it comes to," 至于 (zhìyú) signals a clear shift in focus from a previously established general topic to a specific, related sub-topic or aspect. It functions as a conversational bridge, guiding the listener's attention to a new, albeit connected, point of discussion.
Chinese is often characterized as a topic-prominent language, meaning that the theme or topic of a sentence tends to appear early, setting the context for what follows. 至于 (zhìyú) capitalizes on this characteristic by explicitly marking a re-orientation of the topic. Instead of abruptly changing subjects, which can sound disjointed or rude, 至于 (zhìyú) provides a smooth transition, indicating that while the new point is distinct, it still operates within the broader context of the previous statement.
This makes communication clearer, more organized, and easier for the listener to follow, even for beginners at the A1 CEFR level. For instance, after discussing the general appearance of a new car, you might use 至于价格 (zhìyú jiàgé) (as for the price) to pivot to the financial aspect, creating a seamless flow of information.
This grammatical pattern is not confined to formal writing; it is a pervasive element of daily Chinese communication, appearing in casual chats, professional discussions, news reports, and social media interactions. Mastering 至于 (zhìyú) allows learners to express nuanced thoughts, compare elements effectively, and engage in more sophisticated conversations, moving beyond simple declarative sentences. It enables you to subdivide ideas, present contrasting opinions, or address specific facets of a complex issue, demonstrating a more mature command of the language's organizational principles.
Consider discussing plans for a weekend: 我周末打算去公园玩。至于天气，希望是晴天。 (Wǒ zhōumò dǎsuàn qù gōngyuán wán. Zhìyú tiānqì, xīwàng shì qíngtiān.) - "I plan to go to the park this weekend. As for the weather, I hope it's sunny." Here, 至于 (zhìyú) efficiently narrows the focus from the general plan to a specific condition.
How This Grammar Works
至于 (zhìyú) operates by establishing a relationship of differentiation between two ideas. It implies that a preceding statement (or implicit context) has covered one aspect, and now the discourse is moving to another, often more specific, contrasting, or consequential aspect. This shift is not a complete change of subject but rather a redirection of focus within a larger conceptual framework.至于 (zhìyú) creates a sub-topic marker. Imagine you are evaluating a product. You might first discuss its design, then use 至于 (zhìyú) to shift to its functionality, and perhaps again to its cost.这本书内容很丰富。至于排版，我觉得可以更好。 (Zhè běn shū nèiróng hěn fēngfù. Zhìyú páibǎn, wǒ juéde kěyǐ gèng hǎo.) - "This book's content is very rich. As for the layout, I think it could be better." Here, 至于 (zhìyú) allows for a balanced critique, acknowledging positive aspects before addressing areas for improvement.至于 (zhìyú) inherently presupposes some prior context. It cannot initiate a completely new discussion without sounding out of place. Its purpose is to redirect or narrow an existing topic, not to introduce one from scratch.至于 (zhìyú), you are implicitly signaling to your audience: "We've covered X; now let's consider Y, which is related but distinct." This mechanism aids in forming coherent arguments and delivering well-structured presentations, even in casual settings. 我们已经讨论了旅行目的地。至于住宿，你有什么想法？ (`Wǒmen yǐjīng tǎolùn le lǚxíng mùdìdì.) - "We've discussed the travel destination. As for accommodation, what are your thoughts?" This perfectly illustrates 至于 (zhìyú)`'s role in guiding a multi-faceted planning discussion.Word Order Rules
至于 (zhìyú) is relatively straightforward and quite rigid, especially for learners at the A1 level. Adhering to this structure ensures clarity and correct grammatical usage. The fundamental pattern is:- Initial Statement/Context: This is the preceding sentence or clause that establishes the general discussion point.
至于 (zhìyú)always requires this prior context; it cannot stand alone to introduce an entirely new conversation. For example,这部电影很受欢迎。(Zhè bù diànyǐng hěn shòu huānyíng.) - "This movie is very popular."
- 至于 (zhìyú): This particle always precedes the new topic. Its placement is fixed at the beginning of the clause that introduces the shift. It acts as the explicit signal for the topic change.
- New Topic Phrase: Directly follows
至于 (zhìyú). This can be a noun, a pronoun, a noun phrase, a verb phrase, or even a short clause that represents the specific aspect you want to discuss next. For instance,电影票(diànyǐngpiào) - "movie tickets",剧情(jùqíng) - "plot", or演员的表演(yǎnyuán de biǎoyǎn) - "the actors' performances."
- Comment/Statement about the New Topic: This is the clause that provides information, an opinion, or a question related specifically to the new topic introduced by
至于 (zhìyú). It clarifies what you want to say about this specific aspect. Example:有点贵。(Yǒudiǎn guì.) - "A bit expensive."
这部电影很受欢迎。至于电影票，有点贵。 (Zhè bù diànyǐng hěn shòu huānyíng. Zhìyú diànyǐngpiào, yǒudiǎn guì.) - "This movie is very popular. As for the movie tickets, they're a bit expensive."至于 (zhìyú). You cannot insert other words between them. Also, 至于 (zhìyú) itself cannot be placed at the end of a sentence or clause; it functions as an introductory marker for the shifted topic., is typically used after the new topic phrase to indicate a slight pause, mirroring natural speech rhythm. This comma enhances readability and emphasizes the topic shift. For example, 他每天都跑步锻炼。至于饮食，他非常注意。 (`Tā měitiān dōu pǎobù duànliàn.Formation Pattern
至于 (zhìyú) can be conceptualized as a logical, four-step construction process. This systematic approach helps ensure that your sentences are grammatically correct and convey the intended meaning of topic shift effectively.
我喜欢旅行。 (Wǒ xǐhuān lǚxíng.) - "I like to travel."
至于 (zhìyú) immediately after the initial statement (often in a new sentence, or after a strong pause marked by a comma or semicolon in more complex sentences). This signals your intention to transition to a related but different aspect.
我喜欢旅行。至于... (Wǒ xǐhuān lǚxíng. Zhìyú...) - "I like to travel. As for..."
至于 (zhìyú), state the specific sub-topic or aspect you wish to discuss next. This can be a noun, a noun phrase, a pronoun, or even a short clause. This is the new focus of your sentence.
我喜欢旅行。至于去哪里，... (Wǒ xǐhuān lǚxíng. Zhìyú qù nǎlǐ,...) - "I like to travel. As for where to go, ..."
我喜欢旅行。至于去哪里，我还没决定。 (Wǒ xǐhuān lǚxíng. Zhìyú qù nǎlǐ, wǒ hái méi juédìng.) - "I like to travel. As for where to go, I haven't decided yet."
他工作很忙。 | Tā gōngzuò hěn máng. | "He's very busy with work." |
至于 (zhìyú) | 至于 | Zhìyú | "As for" |
他的家人 | tā de jiārén | "his family" |
他很少有时间陪。 | tā hěn shǎo yǒu shíjiān péi. | "he rarely has time to accompany."|
他工作很忙。至于他的家人，他很少有时间陪。 (Tā gōngzuò hěn máng. Zhìyú tā de jiārén, tā hěn shǎo yǒu shíjiān péi.) - "He's very busy with work. As for his family, he rarely has time to accompany them." This structured approach ensures clarity and correct grammatical application of 至于 (zhìyú).
When To Use It
至于 (zhìyú) is a versatile tool for managing information flow and expressing complex ideas effectively. Its primary utility lies in its ability to introduce a shift in focus within an ongoing conversation or written piece, allowing for detailed exploration of multiple facets of a subject. Here are the key scenarios where you should employ 至于 (zhìyú):- To Subdivide a Broader Topic: When you've introduced a general subject and now wish to elaborate on a specific component or aspect of it. This is perhaps its most common use. For instance,
这个项目很有前景。至于具体的实施方案，我们还在讨论。(Zhège xiàngmù hěn yǒu qiánjǐng. Zhìyú jùtǐ de shíshī fāng'àn, wǒmen hái zài tǎolùn.) - "This project has great prospects. As for the specific implementation plan, we are still discussing it." Here, the general "project" is subdivided into "specific implementation plan."
- To Compare or Contrast Related Items/Ideas: When you are discussing two or more related entities and want to highlight differences or different characteristics between them. This shows a balanced perspective. For example,
我喜欢北京的文化氛围。至于上海，它的经济发展更快。(Wǒ xǐhuān Běijīng de wénhuà fēnwéi. Zhìyú Shànghǎi, tā de jīngjì fāzhǎn gèng kuài.) - "I like Beijing's cultural atmosphere. As for Shanghai, its economic development is faster."
- To Respond to a Specific Part of a Complex Question: If a question has multiple components,
至于 (zhìyú)allows you to address each part systematically, ensuring clarity and avoiding confusion.你觉得我们这次的团建活动怎么样，以及明年的预算呢？(Nǐ juéde wǒmen zhè cì de tuánjiàn huódòng zěnmeyàng, yǐjí míngnián de yùsuàn ne?) - "How do you feel about our team-building event, and what about next year's budget?" Response:活动很成功。至于明年的预算，我认为应该增加。(Huódòng hěn chénggōng. Zhìyú míngnián de yùsuàn, wǒ rènwéi yīnggāi zēngjiā.) - "The event was very successful. As for next year's budget, I think it should be increased."
- To Shift Focus in Reports, Presentations, or Formal Discussions: In professional or academic contexts,
至于 (zhìyú)lends structure and clarity to your arguments, helping the audience follow your line of reasoning as you move from one point to another. It conveys a sense of organization and thoroughness.
- To Express Nuance or Partial Agreement/Disagreement: It enables you to acknowledge one point while subtly shifting to a different, possibly contrasting, perspective on a related matter. This is particularly useful for expressing complex opinions rather than simple yes/no answers.
至于 (zhìyú) is not meant for introducing entirely new topics out of the blue. Its essence is to refer back to something already mentioned or implied, then forward to a specific, related detail. Using it appropriately demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of information structuring in Chinese, a hallmark of competent communication across various registers, from casual chat to formal discourse.Common Mistakes
至于 (zhìyú) is a powerful tool, learners, especially at the A1 level, frequently make specific errors due to its nuanced function. Understanding these pitfalls is crucial for accurate and natural usage.- Using
至于 (zhìyú)to Initiate a Brand-New Conversation: This is arguably the most common and jarring mistake.至于 (zhìyú)requires prior context; it's a transition word, not an opening statement. Starting a conversation with至于天气，今天会下雨吗？(Zhìyú tiānqì, jīntiān huì xià yǔ ma?) - "As for the weather, will it rain today?" is incorrect because no previous topic has been established for it to shift from. Native speakers would use a direct opening like今天天气怎么样？(Jīntiān tiānqì zěnmeyàng?) - "How's the weather today?" or听说今天要下雨。(Tīng shuō jīntiān yào xià yǔ.) - "I heard it's going to rain today."
- Incorrect Placement of
至于 (zhìyú)or the Topic Phrase: The structure至于 + Topic Phraseis inviolable. Placing至于 (zhìyú)after the topic (话题至于...) or inserting other words between them (至于，然后话题...) breaks the grammatical pattern. For instance,狗至于我不喜欢。(Gǒu zhìyú wǒ bù xǐhuān.) - (Incorrect word order for "As for dogs, I don't like them.") The correct form is至于狗，我不喜欢。(Zhìyú gǒu, wǒ bù xǐhuān.). Always remember至于 (zhìyú)acts as a direct preface to the new subject.
- Confusing
至于 (zhìyú)with因为 (yīnwèi)(because) or所以 (suǒyǐ)(so/therefore): While all are conjunction-like elements, their functions are entirely different.至于 (zhìyú)introduces a shifted topic, not a cause or a result. A learner might mistakenly say我迟到了，至于交通很堵。(Wǒ chídào le, zhìyú jiāotōng hěn dǔ.) - (Incorrect.) This should be我迟到了，因为交通很堵。(Wǒ chídào le, yīnwèi jiāotōng hěn dǔ.) - "I was late, because the traffic was bad."
- Overuse in Simple Sentences: While
至于 (zhìyú)is helpful, constant use can make your speech sound overly formal or clunky, especially in very short, simple exchanges. It's best reserved for situations where a genuine shift in a multi-faceted discussion is needed, rather than for every slight transition.
- Ignoring the Comma/Pause: In writing, omitting the comma after the topic phrase (
至于 + Topic, ...) can make the sentence harder to parse. In speech, neglecting the slight pause can obscure the intended topic shift, making your statement sound less clear. Example of mistake:至于你我不知道。(Zhìyú nǐ wǒ bù zhīdào.) - (Without a pause, it can sound like a single phrase.) Correct with pause:至于你，我不知道。(Zhìyú nǐ, wǒ bù zhīdào.) - "As for you, I don't know."
- Incorrect Tones: While context often saves communication, correct tones are foundational.
至 (zhì)is a 4th tone (falling), and于 (yú)is a 2nd tone (rising). Mispronouncing these can sometimes lead to misunderstanding, though the grammatical context usually minimizes this risk for至于 (zhìyú)itself. Constant practice with tones is always recommended.
至于 (zhìyú) with greater precision and naturalness, enhancing your communicative competence in Chinese.Contrast With Similar Patterns
至于 (zhìyú) because they deal with topics or relationships between clauses. However, their precise functions and usage contexts differ significantly. Understanding these distinctions is key to using 至于 (zhìyú) correctly and avoiding confusion.- 1关于 (guānyú): "about," "concerning," "regarding."
- Function:
关于 (guānyú)introduces a topic for the first time, often at the beginning of a sentence or discourse, establishing what the following discussion will be about. It sets the overall subject matter. - Key Difference from
至于 (zhìyú):关于 (guānyú)introduces a new, overarching topic without requiring prior context.至于 (zhìyú)shifts focus to a specific aspect within an already established broader topic. - Example:
关于这个问题，我们已经讨论过了。(Guānyú zhège wèntí, wǒmen yǐjīng tǎolùn guò le.) - "Regarding this issue, we have already discussed it." (Introduces the issue as the main topic.) - Incorrect usage of
至于: You cannot start a discussion with至于这个问题....
- 1对于 (duìyú): "regarding," "as far as...is concerned," "in regard to."
- Function:
对于 (duìyú)typically introduces the object or target of an action, opinion, or judgment. It emphasizes the perspective or stance taken towards a particular subject, often preceding a verb phrase that describes the action or thought related to the topic. - Key Difference from
至于 (zhìyú):对于 (duìyú)focuses on how someone views or acts upon a topic, often implying an attitude or specific action.至于 (zhìyú)simply introduces a new facet of discussion. - Example:
对于这个提案，我有不同看法。(Duìyú zhège tí'àn, wǒ yǒu bùtóng kànfǎ.) - "Regarding this proposal, I have a different view." (Expresses an opinion about the proposal.) 我们讨论了新的营销策略。至于执行，还需要更多细节。(Wǒmen tǎolùn le xīn de yíngxiāo cèlüè. Zhìyú zhíxíng, hái xūyào gèng duō xìjié.) - "We discussed the new marketing strategy. As for its execution, more details are still needed." (Shifts to a specific aspect of the strategy.)
- 1呢 (ne): A modal particle.
- Function: When used at the end of a noun or pronoun,
呢 (ne)can informally inquire "what about...?" or "how about...?" It's a casual way to ask for information about a related topic after something else has been mentioned. - Key Difference from
至于 (zhìyú):呢 (ne)is much more informal, primarily for questions, and lacks the structural weight and explicit topic-shifting function of至于 (zhìyú). It doesn't introduce a statement about the new topic, but rather solicits one. - Example:
我买了衬衫。裙子呢？(Wǒ mǎi le chènshān. Qúnzi ne?) - "I bought a shirt. What about the skirt?" (Casual inquiry.)
关于历史，我有很多想了解的。 (Guānyú lìshǐ, wǒ yǒu hěn duō xiǎng liǎojiě de.) "Regarding history, there's a lot I want to know." |对于他的决定，我表示支持。 (Duìyú tā de juédìng, wǒ biǎoshì zhīchí.) "Regarding his decision, I express support." |手机的拍照功能很好。至于电池续航，我觉得一般。 (Shǒujī de pāizhào gōngnéng hěn hǎo. Zhìyú diànchí xùháng, wǒ juéde yībān.) "The phone's camera is good. As for battery life, I think it's average." |Real Conversations
To truly grasp 至于 (zhìyú), it's essential to see how native speakers integrate it into everyday interactions. It allows for natural, nuanced communication, reflecting how thoughts progress and topics are managed in genuine dialogue. Observe how it's used to balance opinions, transition between related ideas, and address different facets of a subject.
Scenario 1
A
这家新开的餐厅味道怎么样？ (Zhè jiā xīn kāi de cāntīng wèidào zěnmeyàng?) - "How's the food at this new restaurant?"B
菜的味道很不错，我很喜欢。至于服务，我觉得还有待提高。 (Cài de wèidào hěn bùcuò, wǒ hěn xǐhuān. Zhìyú fúwù, wǒ juéde hái yǒu dài tígāo.) - "The food tastes really good, I liked it a lot. As for the service, I think there's room for improvement."- Analysis: B uses 至于 (zhìyú) to offer a balanced critique, first praising the food (main topic) and then shifting to a less positive aspect, the service, without creating an abrupt conversational jump.
Scenario 2
A
我们今年的业绩目标定得很高啊。 (Wǒmen jīnnián de yèjī mùbiāo dìng de hěn gāo a.) - "Our performance target for this year is set very high."B
是啊，挑战很大。至于我们团队的任务分配，我已经有初步想法了。 (Shì a, tiǎozhàn hěn dà. Zhìyú wǒmen tuánduì de rènwù fēnpèi, wǒ yǐjīng yǒu chūbù xiǎngfǎ le.) - "Yes, it's a big challenge. As for our team's task distribution, I already have some initial ideas."- Analysis: B acknowledges the general challenge (high targets) and then uses 至于 (zhìyú) to smoothly pivot to a more specific, actionable sub-topic: task distribution within their team.
Scenario 3
今天去看了演唱会，现场气氛超级棒！歌手的表演也特别有感染力。至于我的嗓子，现在完全哑了，哈哈。 (Jīntiān qù kàn le yǎnchànghuì, xiànchǎng qìfēn chāojí bàng! Gēshǒu de biǎoyǎn yě tèbié yǒu gǎnrǎnlì. Zhìyú wǒ de sǎngzi, xiànzài wánquán yǎ le, hāhā.) - "Went to a concert today, the atmosphere was super! The singer's performance was also very captivating. As for my voice, it's completely hoarse now, haha."
- Analysis: Here, 至于 (zhìyú) creates a humorous personal anecdote following the main positive review of the concert. It connects a consequence (hoarse voice) to the enjoyable event.
Scenario 4
A
我们这个周末去郊游怎么样？ (Wǒmen zhège zhōumò qù jiāoyóu zěnmeyàng?) - "How about we go for an outing this weekend?"B
听起来不错！至于具体去哪里，我想去那个有湖的公园。 (Tīng qǐlái bùcuò! Zhìyú jùtǐ qù nǎlǐ, wǒ xiǎng qù nàge yǒu hú de gōngyuán.) - "Sounds good! As for exactly where to go, I want to go to that park with a lake."- Analysis: B first agrees with the general idea of an outing, then uses 至于 (zhìyú) to introduce a specific preference for the location, narrowing the discussion to a concrete detail.
These examples illustrate that 至于 (zhìyú) is not just a formal academic construct but a living part of Chinese. It empowers speakers to articulate their thoughts with greater precision and maintain clarity across various communicative contexts, from sharing personal experiences to coordinating group activities.
Quick FAQ
至于 (zhìyú) to reinforce your understanding:- Is
至于 (zhìyú)formal or informal?
- Can I use
至于 (zhìyú)to compare people?
他已经毕业工作了。至于我，还在读书。 (Tā yǐjīng bìyè gōngzuò le. Zhìyú wǒ, hái zài dúshū.) - "He has already graduated and is working. As for me, I'm still studying."- Do I always need a comma after the topic phrase?
,) after the topic phrase introduced by 至于 (zhìyú). This aids readability and visually represents the natural pause in speech, enhancing comprehension.- Can
至于 (zhìyú)introduce a verb phrase or a clause as the new topic?
至于 (zhìyú) can also introduce a verb phrase or a short clause, especially when the shifted topic is an action or a condition. For instance: 工作我已经完成了。至于能不能通过，就看老板了。 (`Gōngzuò wǒ yǐjīng wánchéng le.- What if I can't remember
至于 (zhìyú)in a conversation?
呢 (ne) at the end of the topic you want to shift to. For example, after discussing one friend's plans, you might ask 你呢？ (Nǐ ne?) - "And you?" However, 呢 (ne) is less formal and does not introduce a statement about the new topic, only an inquiry.- Is
至于 (zhìyú)only for negative contrasts?
- Does
至于 (zhìyú)have other advanced meanings?
至于 (zhìyú) can sometimes mean "to go so far as to" or "to reach a certain extent/level." However, for A1 learners, focusing solely on its "as for/regarding" function is sufficient and appropriate, as this is its most common and fundamental modern usage.- How often should I use
至于 (zhìyú)?
Formation Pattern
| Marker | Topic | Comment |
|---|---|---|
|
至于
|
他
|
不感兴趣
|
|
至于
|
价格
|
太贵了
|
|
至于
|
时间
|
没问题
|
Meanings
Used to introduce a new topic or to shift focus from a previous subject to a new one.
Topic Shifting
Introducing a new, related topic for discussion.
“{至于|zhìyú}那{件|jiàn}事，我{以后|yǐhòu}再告诉你。”
“{至于|zhìyú}他，他{根本|gēnběn}不在乎。”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Affirmative
|
至于 + Topic + Comment
|
{至于|zhìyú}他，他很聪明。
|
|
Contrastive
|
Topic A + Comment, 至于 + Topic B + Comment
|
他很忙，{至于|zhìyú}我，我很闲。
|
Formality Spectrum
{至于|zhìyú}资金，我们将进一步评估。 (Business meeting)
{至于|zhìyú}钱，我们再看看。 (Business meeting)
{至于|zhìyú}钱，到时候再说。 (Business meeting)
钱的事儿，再说吧。 (Business meeting)
Topic Shifting Flow
Topic A
- Old Info Finished
Transition
- 至于 Shift
Topic B
- New Info Focus
Examples by Level
{至于|zhìyú}我，我{喜欢|xǐhuān}{咖啡|kāfēi}。
As for me, I like coffee.
{至于|zhìyú}他，他{明天|míngtiān}来。
As for him, he is coming tomorrow.
{至于|zhìyú}这个{问题|wèntí}，我们{以后|yǐhòu}再{讨论|tǎolùn}。
As for this issue, we will discuss it later.
{至于|zhìyú}你的{建议|jiànyì}，我{觉得|juéde}很有{道理|dàolǐ}。
As for your suggestion, I think it makes sense.
{至于|zhìyú}该{方案|fāng'àn}的{可行性|kěxíngxìng}，{目前|mùqián}尚无{定论|dìnglùn}。
As for the feasibility of the plan, there is no conclusion yet.
{至于|zhìyú}那段{历史|lìshǐ}，{学者|xuézhě}们{至今|zhìjīn}仍{争论不休|zhēnglùnbùxiū}。
As for that period of history, scholars are still debating it.
Easily Confused
Both translate to 'about'.
Common Mistakes
我至于喜欢猫。
{至于|zhìyú}我，我喜欢猫。
至于关于他...
{至于|zhìyú}他...
至于去吃饭。
{至于|zhìyú}吃饭，我们去哪？
至于，他很好。
{至于|zhìyú}他，他很好。
Sentence Patterns
{至于|zhìyú}___，___。
Real World Usage
{至于|zhìyú}预算，我们明天讨论。
Use it to pause
Smart Tips
Use it to buy time.
Pronunciation
Tone
zhì (4th) yú (2nd).
Pause after
{至于|zhìyú} [pause] ...
Signals the shift.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'Zhi-Yu' as 'Gee, you' (shift to you).
Visual Association
Imagine a DJ switching tracks on a turntable. The record player is 'Zhi-Yu'.
Rhyme
When the topic is new, use Zhi-Yu.
Story
I was talking about cats. My friend was bored. I said 'Zhi-Yu' and started talking about dogs. The conversation flowed perfectly.
Word Web
Challenge
Write 3 sentences using {至于|zhìyú} to pivot from your favorite food to your favorite hobby.
Cultural Notes
Very common in formal meetings.
Classical Chinese roots.
Conversation Starters
{至于|zhìyú}你的爱好，你最喜欢什么？
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
{至于|zhìyú}___，我不知道。
Score: /1
Practice Exercises
1 exercises{至于|zhìyú}___，我不知道。
Score: /1
Practice Bank
10 exercises{他|tā} {很|hěn} {聪明|cōngmíng}。 ___ {性格|xìnggé}，{他|tā} {太|tài} {懒|lǎn} {了|le}。
{至于|zhìyú} {很好|hěn hǎo} {工作|gōngzuò}。
Arrange: {太|tài} {至于|zhìyú} {远|yuǎn} {了|le} {位置|wèizhì}，
As for tea, I don't drink it.
Compare coffee and tea.
Match the shifts:
{时间|shíjiān} {可以|kěyǐ}。 ___ {地点|dìdiǎn}，{我们|wǒmen} {再|zài} {商量|shāngliang}。
Arrange: {觉得|juéde} {音乐|yīnyuè} {一般|yībān} {至于|zhìyú}
Asking about money after talking about time.
Score: /10
FAQ (1)
No, only for topics.
Scaffolded Practice
1
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
En cuanto a
None.
Quant à
None.
Was ... betrifft
Word order.
〜については
Particle vs conjunction.
أما بالنسبة لـ
Prepositional structure.
至于
N/A
Learning Path
Prerequisites
Learn These First
Continue With
Talking About Topics: 'About' and 'Related to' (关于, 有关)
Overview In Chinese, expressing the concept of "about" or "related to" requires precision, often utilizing `关于 (guānyú...
Formal Topic-Comment Structures: Guanyu, Zhiyu, and Lun (关于、至于、论)
Overview In English, we structure sentences around a subject performing an action: "**The team** will discuss **the bud...
Related Grammar Rules
Having things and 'There is' ({有|yǒu})
Overview In Chinese, the character `{有|yǒu}` is a foundational verb with two primary functions: expressing **possession...
Emphasizing Details with 是...的 (shì...de)
Overview The `是...的 (shì...de)` construction is a fundamental Chinese grammar pattern. It acts as a linguistic spotlig...
Explaining the 'Why' (之所以...是因为...)
Overview At the B2 level, you have likely mastered the fundamental cause-and-effect pattern `因为...所以...` (yīnwèi......
Explaining 'Why': Emphasizing Reasons (之所以...是因为...)
Overview The Chinese correlative conjunction pattern `之所以...是因为...` (zhīsuǒyǐ...shìyīnwèi...) serves a crucial fun...
Formal Topic-Comment Structures: Guanyu, Zhiyu, and Lun (关于、至于、论)
Overview In English, we structure sentences around a subject performing an action: "**The team** will discuss **the bud...
