Talking About Topics: 'About' and 'Related to' (关于, 有关)
关于 to set the scene and 有关 to link specific things to a subject.
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Use {关于|guānyú} or {有关|yǒuguān} to introduce a topic, usually placed at the start of a sentence or before a noun.
- Use {关于|guānyú} to introduce a topic: {关于|guānyú}这个计划，我们明天讨论。
- Use {有关|yǒuguān} to describe a relationship: 这本书与教育{有关|yǒuguān}。
- Place {关于|guānyú} at the start of the sentence to set the context.
Overview
In Chinese, expressing the concept of "about" or "related to" requires precision, often utilizing 关于 (guānyú) and 有关 (yǒuguān). These terms serve as crucial topic markers, guiding the listener or reader to the specific subject of discussion. Understanding their distinct functions is fundamental for constructing clear and grammatically correct sentences, especially in formal or semi-formal contexts.
While English often uses a single preposition like "about" broadly, Chinese differentiates between introducing a general subject for discourse (关于) and describing something directly connected to a topic (有关). Mastering this distinction enhances clarity and reflects a sophisticated understanding of Chinese syntactic principles, even at an A1 level.
How This Grammar Works
- 1The Topic-Comment Structure: The function of
关于 (guānyú)and有关 (yǒuguān)is deeply rooted in Chinese's topic-comment structure, a fundamental organizing principle of its grammar. Unlike subject-predicate languages where the sentence focuses on an action performed by a subject, Chinese often begins by establishing a broader topic, which then frames the subsequent comment. These grammar points explicitly mark that topic.
- 1
关于 (guānyú)as a Frame-Setter: This term acts as a frame-setter or macro-topic introducer. When you use关于, you are signaling that the entire statement or discourse that follows pertains to the specified topic. It functions like a verbal "subject line" for your sentence, preparing the audience for the main theme. It literally means "concerning" or "regarding." For instance, if you begin a discussion with关于中国文化，我有很多兴趣。(Guānyú Zhōngguó wénhuà, wǒ yǒu hěnduō xìngqù.) (Regarding Chinese culture, I have a lot of interest.), you are setting "Chinese culture" as the overarching subject for your current thoughts. This usage is common in formal presentations, academic writing, and official communications where the precise scope of discussion needs to be established upfront.
- 1
有关 (yǒuguān)as a Relational Modifier: In contrast,有关signifies a direct relationship, relevance, or connection between the specified topic and another element, usually a noun. Its literal meaning is "to have relation" or "to be connected." When you say有关健康的建议(yǒuguān jiànkāng de jiànyì) (suggestions related to health),有关links "health" directly to "suggestions," indicating that these suggestions specifically pertain to health. It clarifies what kind of suggestions are being discussed.有关acts more as an attributive modifier, specifying the nature or content of a noun that follows. This often appears in descriptive phrases, titles, or when categorizing information, such as有关教育的文件(yǒuguān jiàoyù de wénjiàn) (documents related to education).
关于 sets the stage for a conversation, while 有关 defines the nature of specific items within that conversation. They help avoid ambiguity by precisely delineating the scope and relevance of information.Word Order Rules
关于 (guānyú) and 有关 (yǒuguān) is critical and follows distinct patterns. Misplacement can lead to ungrammatical or awkward sentences.关于 (guānyú):关于 primarily functions as a prepositional phrase introducer that sets the topic for the entire sentence.- Sentence-Initial Position (Most Common): This is the most typical and formal placement.
关于introduces the topic, often followed by a pause (represented by a comma in writing), and then the main clause. - Pattern:
关于 + Topic + ， + Main Clause - Example 1:
关于这个项目，我们还需要讨论。(Guānyú zhège xiàngmù, wǒmen hái xūyào tǎolùn.) (Regarding this project, we still need to discuss.) Here, the entire discussion is framed by "this project." - Example 2:
关于您的请求，我已经联系了相关部门。(Guānyú nín de qǐngqiú, wǒ yǐjīng liánxì le xiāngguān bùmén.) (Concerning your request, I have already contacted the relevant department.) This clarifies the subject of the action immediately. - Example 3:
关于生活，每个人都有不同的看法。(Guānyú shēnghuó, měi gèrén dōu yǒu bùtóng de kànfǎ.) (About life, everyone has different views.) The topic "life" frames the universal observation.
- As a Title or Heading:
关于can directly precede a topic to form a title, often seen in articles, reports, or chapters. - Pattern:
关于 + Topic - Example:
关于儿童教育(Guānyú értóng jiàoyù) (On Children's Education) – a common title for a book or article.
有关 (yǒuguān):有关 typically functions as an attributive modifier or part of a predicative phrase, indicating connection or relevance.- Attributive Modifier (Most Common):
有关combines with a topic and the structural particle的 (de)to modify a noun, specifying its nature or content. - Pattern:
有关 + Topic + 的 + Noun - Example 1:
我正在看一本有关中国历史的书。(Wǒ zhèngzài kàn yī běn yǒuguān Zhōngguó lìshǐ de shū.) (I am reading a book related to Chinese history.) The book's content is specified by "Chinese history." - Example 2:
他收集了很多有关环境保护的资料。(Tā shōují le hěnduō yǒuguān huánjìng bǎohù de zīliào.) (He collected a lot of materials related to environmental protection.) Here,有关环境保护的describes资料. - Example 3:
这是一个有关电影的新闻。(Zhè shì yī gè yǒuguān diànyǐng de xīnwén.) (This is a piece of news about/related to movies.)有关电影的clarifies what the news is about.
- Predicative Phrase:
有关can be used as a predicate, usually with跟 (gēn)(more common in speech) or与 (yǔ)(more formal) to explicitly state that something is related to another. - Pattern:
[Subject] + 跟/与 + Topic + 有关 - Example 1:
这件事跟他的学习有关。(Zhè jiàn shì gēn tā de xuéxí yǒuguān.) (This matter is related to his studies.) It states a direct connection. - Example 2:
这个问题与我们的未来有关。(Zhège wèntí yǔ wǒmen de wèilái yǒuguān.) (This question is related to our future.)与imparts a slightly more formal tone here.
关于 and the 有关...的 + Noun pattern for 有关 will cover the most frequent and essential usages.Formation Pattern
关于 (guānyú) and 有关 (yǒuguān) follows clear, formulaic patterns. Understanding these structures allows for accurate and idiomatic expression.
关于 (guānyú):
关于 introduces the topic for an entire sentence or a distinct thought. The topic can be a noun, a noun phrase, or even a clause.
关于 + Topic, + Sentence | 关于明天的会议，我已经准备好了。 | Guānyú míngtiān de huìyì, wǒ yǐjīng zhǔnbèi hǎo le. | Regarding tomorrow's meeting, I am already prepared. |
关于中国文化，你了解多少？ | Guānyú Zhōngguó wénhuà, nǐ liǎojiě duōshǎo? | How much do you know about Chinese culture? |
关于 + Topic (Title/Heading) | 关于人生 | Guānyú rénshēng | On Life |
关于经济发展报告 | Guānyú jīngjì fāzhǎn bàogào | Report on Economic Development |
关于:
关于 + Topic phrase is common and signals the transition to the main comment.
Topic here is the subject of discussion for the entire subsequent statement.
有关 (yǒuguān):
有关 specifies a relationship or relevance between a topic and a noun. It often acts as an adjective-like modifier.
有关 + Topic + 的 + Noun | 这是一篇有关全球变暖的文章。 | Zhè shì yī piān yǒuguān quánqiú biànnuǎn de wénzhāng. | This is an article about/related to global warming. |
我想找一些有关旅游的网站。 | Wǒ xiǎng zhǎo yī xiē yǒuguān lǚyóu de wǎngzhàn. | I want to find some websites related to travel. |
[Subject] + 跟/与 + Topic + 有关 | 这件事跟钱有关。 | Zhè jiàn shì gēn qián yǒuguān. | This matter is related to money. |
他的成功与努力有关。 | Tā de chénggōng yǔ nǔlì yǒuguān. | His success is related to effort. |
有关:
的 (de) is almost always present when 有关 + Topic acts as an attributive modifier before a noun. Omitting 的 in this context is a common grammatical error.
跟 (gēn) is used in more casual speech, while 与 (yǔ) is preferred in formal writing for [Subject] + 跟/与 + Topic + 有关.
Topic here describes what the Noun is connected to or about.
When To Use It
关于 (guānyú) and 有关 (yǒuguān) depends precisely on the type of relationship you wish to convey. While both relate to a topic, their applications are distinct.关于 (guānyú) when:- Introducing a broad subject for discussion or a new topic. This is ideal for setting the context of a conversation, meeting, or written piece.
- Example:
关于这次的合作，我有几个问题想问。(Guānyú zhè cì de hézuò, wǒ yǒu jǐ gè wèntí xiǎng wèn.) (Regarding this collaboration, I have a few questions I'd like to ask.) Here,关于introduces the entire subject of "this collaboration." - Stating the general theme of a presentation, report, or formal communication.
- Example:
关于未来的教育发展(Guānyú wèilái de jiàoyù fāzhǎn) (On the Future Development of Education) – often seen as a report title. - Framing a statement that provides information or an opinion about a general subject.
- Example:
关于健康饮食，专家建议多吃蔬菜水果。(Guānyú jiànkāng yǐnshí, zhuānjiā jiànyì duō chī shūcài shuǐguǒ.) (Regarding healthy eating, experts suggest eating more vegetables and fruits.) The general topic is "healthy eating."
有关 (yǒuguān) when:- Describing specific items, information, or concepts that are connected or relevant to a particular topic.
有关acts as an adjective-like modifier. - Example:
我们需要收集一些有关历史的资料。(Wǒmen xūyào shōují yī xiē yǒuguān lìshǐ de zīliào.) (We need to collect some materials related to history.) The资料(materials) are specifically about历史(history). - Identifying people, departments, or entities that are involved with or responsible for a topic. This often appears in official or semi-formal contexts.
- Example:
请联系有关部门解决这个问题。(Qǐng liánxì yǒuguān bùmén jiějué zhège wèntí.) (Please contact the relevant departments to solve this problem.) The departments are有关(relevant) to the problem. - Indicating a direct relationship or causal link between two things.
- Example:
他的缺席可能与他的健康有关。(Tā de quēxí kěnéng yǔ tā de jiànkāng yǒuguān.) (His absence might be related to his health.) Here,有关expresses a direct connection. - Searching for or categorizing specific types of content. This is common in online searches or when organizing files.
- Example:
网上有很多有关旅行的博客。(Wǎngshàng yǒu hěnduō yǒuguān lǚxíng de bókè.) (There are many blogs related to travel online.) This specifies the type of blogs.
关于 is like opening a file folder labeled "Topic X" and discussing its contents, while 有关 is like finding a document within a larger collection and labeling it "related to Topic X."Common Mistakes
关于 (guānyú) and 有关 (yǒuguān). Recognizing these common errors and understanding their underlying reasons is crucial for achieving fluency and accuracy.- 1Incorrect Placement of
关于: A prevalent error for English speakers is directly translating "talk about X" as说关于X (shuō guānyú X). In Chinese,关于rarely follows the verb directly in this manner. Its primary function is to introduce the topic at the beginning of a clause or sentence.
- Incorrect:
我喜欢说关于中国文化。(Wǒ xǐhuān shuō guānyú Zhōngguó wénhuà.) – Sounds unnatural. It feels like saying "I like to speak concerning Chinese culture." - Correct:
关于中国文化，我喜欢说。(Guānyú Zhōngguó wénhuà, wǒ xǐhuān shuō.) – Correct, formal opening. The topic is introduced first, then the speaker's action. This places关于in its proper sentence-initial topic-framing role. - More Natural (general conversation):
我喜欢谈论中国文化。(Wǒ xǐhuān tánlùn Zhōngguó wénhuà.) – Uses the verb谈论 (tánlùn)"to discuss" directly with the object, which is more common in less formal contexts.
关于 sets the entire context, not just the object of a single verb. If you want to talk about something, using verbs like 谈 (tán) (to talk), 谈论 (tánlùn) (to discuss), 说 (shuō) (to speak) directly with the object is often more natural for general conversation.- 1Omitting
的 (de)with Attributive有关: When有关 + Topicmodifies a noun, the structural particle的is almost always necessary to form a grammatically correct attributive phrase. The的indicates possession or modification, linking the有关phrase to the noun it describes.
- Incorrect:
我正在看有关历史书。(Wǒ zhèngzài kàn yǒuguān lìshǐ shū.) – Literally "related history book," sounds incomplete and ungrammatical. - Correct:
我正在看有关历史的书。(Wǒ zhèngzài kàn yǒuguān lìshǐ de shū.) – Means "book related to history." The的is crucial here, as有关历史functions adjectivally to describe书.
的, the connection between the topic and the noun is not properly established, leading to a fragmented sentence. This is a very common error for A1 learners.- 1Over-usage or Unnecessary Usage: While
关于and有关are important, they are often more formal. In casual conversation, Chinese speakers frequently omit explicit topic markers if the context is clear. The natural topic-comment structure of Chinese often allows the topic to be inferred without an explicit marker.
- Potentially Redundant:
关于今天的晚饭，我们吃什么？(Guānyú jīntiān de wǎnfàn, wǒmen chī shénme?) - More Natural/Casual:
今天晚饭我们吃什么？(Jīntiān wǎnfàn wǒmen chī shénme?) – The topic is clear from context. In daily interactions, explicit topic markers can sound overly formal or even pedantic if not used strategically.
- 1Confusing
关于with对于 (duìyú): This is a more advanced point but relevant for A1 learners to be aware of. While both can be translated as "regarding," they have different functions.
关于introduces the subject or scope of a discussion.对于introduces a perspective, attitude, or the recipient of an action towards a topic. It implies an agent interacting with the topic.- Example (
关于):关于环境保护，政府有很多政策。(Guānyú huánjìng bǎohù, zhèngfǔ yǒu hěnduō zhèngcè.) (Regarding environmental protection, the government has many policies.) –环境保护is the topic being discussed. - Example (
对于):对于环境保护，他有很深的理解。(Duìyú huánjìng bǎohù, tā yǒu hěn shēn de lǐjiě.) (Regarding environmental protection, he has a deep understanding.) –他 (he)has an understanding towards环境保护.
关于 when 对于 is more appropriate will sound awkward because it changes the emphasis from the topic itself to an action or perspective towards the topic.Contrast With Similar Patterns
关于 (guānyú) and similar structures like 对于 (duìyú) and 至于 (zhìyú) prevents confusion and enhances precision.关于 (guānyú) vs. 对于 (duìyú):关于: Introduces the overall subject matter or scope of a statement or discussion. It sets the theme. The focus is on what is being discussed.- Example:
关于气候变化，这是一个全球性问题。(Guānyú qìhòu biànhuà, zhè shì yī gè quánqiúxìng wèntí.) (Regarding climate change, this is a global issue.) –气候变化is the general topic.
对于: Introduces a perspective, attitude, or specific action taken towards a topic or object. It often implies an agent (person or entity) holding a viewpoint or performing an action in relation to something. The focus is on how something is perceived or acted upon.- Example:
对于气候变化，科学家们提出了很多建议。(Duìyú qìhòu biànhuà, kēxuéjiāmen tíchū le hěnduō jiànyì.) (Regarding climate change, scientists have put forward many suggestions.) – Here,科学家们 (scientists)are performing an action (提出了建议) towards气候变化.
关于 (guānyú) | 对于 (duìyú) |关于这本书，内容很丰富。 (Regarding this book, the content is very rich.) | 对于这本书，我有很深的感情。 (Regarding this book, I have deep feelings.) |关于 (guānyú) vs. 至于 (zhìyú):关于: Introduces the main or primary topic of discussion. It sets the overall context from the beginning.- Example:
关于我们的新产品，市场反应很好。(Guānyú wǒmen de xīn chǎnpǐn, shìchǎng fǎnyìng hěn hǎo.) (Regarding our new product, market response is very good.)
至于: Means "as for," "as to," or "with regard to." It is used to introduce a secondary topic, a less important detail, or to shift the focus after a main point has been discussed. It often implies a slight concession or a transition to a related but distinct aspect.- Example:
这次会议进展顺利，至于下一次会议的时间，我们稍后通知。(Zhè cì huìyì jìnzhǎn shùnlì, zhìyú xià yī cì huìyì de shíjiān, wǒmen shāohòu tōngzhī.) (This meeting progressed smoothly; as for the time of the next meeting, we will inform you later.) – The main point is the current meeting; the next meeting's time is a secondary detail.
关于 (guānyú) | 至于 (zhìyú) |关于他的决定，我支持。 (Regarding his decision, I support it.) | 他工作很努力，至于结果，就看运气了。 (He works hard; as for the result, it depends on luck.) |Real Conversations
Observing 关于 (guānyú) and 有关 (yǒuguān) in authentic contexts reveals their practical application across various communication styles, from formal reports to casual chats.
Formal Business Communication (Email/Meeting):
- Context: A manager addressing a team about a new project.
- Example: 各位同事，关于新的市场推广计划，我希望大家今天能提交初步报告。有关预算分配的详细信息，请查阅附件。 (Gèwèi tóngshì, guānyú xīn de shìchǎng tuīguǎng jìhuà, wǒ xīwàng dàjiā jīntiān néng tíjiāo chūbù bàogào. Yǒuguān yùsuàn fēnpèi de xiángxì xìnxī, qǐng cháyuè fùjiàn.) (Dear colleagues, regarding the new marketing promotion plan, I hope everyone can submit preliminary reports today. For detailed information related to budget allocation, please refer to the attachment.)
- Analysis: 关于 introduces the overarching topic of the "new marketing promotion plan" for the entire message. 有关 then specifies what kind of "detailed information" is in the attachment, i.e., information related to "budget allocation."
Academic/Informative Context (News Report/Documentary):
- Context: A news headline or documentary narration.
- Example: 最新研究：有关人工智能与社会发展的影响。 (Zuìxīn yánjiū: Yǒuguān rén'gōng zhìnéng yǔ shèhuì fāzhǎn de yǐngxiǎng.) (Latest research: On the impact of artificial intelligence and social development.)
- Analysis: While 关于 could also be used here (e.g., 关于人工智能与社会发展的影响), 有关 is often preferred in titles for its slightly more descriptive, noun-modifying quality. It implies the research itself pertains to or deals with the impact of AI and social development.
Casual Conversation/Texting:
- Context: Friends discussing something they saw online.
- Friend A: 你看了网上那个视频吗？ (Nǐ kàn le wǎngshàng nà gè shìpín ma?) (Did you watch that video online?)
- Friend B: 哪个？是有关宠物猫的吗？我最近很喜欢看那些。 (Nǎ gè? Shì yǒuguān chǒngwù māo de ma? Wǒ zuìjìn hěn xǐhuān kàn nàxiē.) (Which one? Is it related to pet cats? I really like watching those recently.)
- Analysis: Here, 有关 is used to clarify the type of video. It's concise and natural in this informal exchange to specify the content related to "pet cats." For 关于, it might be slightly too formal for casual texting unless introducing a more serious topic.
Problem Solving/Inquiry:
- Context: A customer inquiring about an order.
- Customer: 您好，关于我的订单，有一个问题想咨询。 (Nín hǎo, guānyú wǒ de dìngdān, yǒu yī gè wèntí xiǎng zīxún.) (Hello, regarding my order, I have a question I'd like to ask about.)
- Analysis: The customer uses 关于 to politely and formally introduce the specific topic of their inquiry: "my order." This immediately sets the context for the customer service representative.
These examples illustrate that while both terms address topics, their specific deployment depends on the formality, the communicative intent (framing a discussion vs. describing a relation), and the broader context of the interaction. Paying attention to these nuances is key to sounding natural and precise.
Quick FAQ
关于 (guānyú) and 有关 (yǒuguān) to consolidate your understanding.- Q1: Can
关于be omitted in some cases? - A: Yes, often in informal contexts or when the topic is clear from preceding sentences. Chinese favors conciseness, and explicit topic markers are not always necessary. For example, instead of
关于这部电影，我觉得很好看。(Guānyú zhè bù diànyǐng, wǒ juédé hěn hǎokàn.) (Regarding this movie, I think it's very good-looking.), you can simply say这部电影很好看。(Zhè bù diànyǐng hěn hǎokàn.) (This movie is very good-looking.) However, in formal settings or when introducing a new, distinct topic,关于is preferred for clarity.
- Q2: Is
有关always followed by的 (de)? - A: Not always. While
有关 + Topic + 的 + Nounis the most common pattern when有关functions as an attributive modifier, it is not followed by的when used predicatively with跟 (gēn)or与 (yǔ). For instance, in这件事跟我有关。(Zhè jiàn shì gēn wǒ yǒuguān.) (This matter is related to me.), there is no的after有关because有关is the predicate, not an attributive modifying a subsequent noun. Similarly, in fixed phrases like有关方面(yǒuguān fāngmiàn) (relevant parties),的is often omitted.
- Q3: Can
关于and有关be used interchangeably? - A: Rarely. While their English translations sometimes overlap, their functions in Chinese are distinct.
关于introduces the general scope of a discussion, while有关describes a direct relationship or relevance between a topic and a noun. Incorrect interchange can lead to awkward or ungrammatical sentences, as detailed in the "Common Mistakes" and "Contrast With Similar Patterns" sections.
- Q4: Do these terms have classical Chinese origins?
- A: Both
关于and有关have roots in classical Chinese usage, indicating their long-standing presence in the language.关 (guān)literally means "to close, relate to, concern," and有 (yǒu)means "to have." Their modern usage as explicit topic markers reflects a continuous evolution of how relationships and topics are expressed, maintaining a formal register that dates back centuries.
- Q5: Is it always necessary to use
关于at the very beginning of a sentence? - A: For A1 learners, it's best to consistently place
关于 + Topicat the beginning of the sentence, followed by a comma (or pause). This is the most standard, clear, and grammatically safe usage. While advanced structures exist where关于might appear later, mastering the initial placement is foundational to avoid common errors and ensure your sentences are well-understood.
Topic Specification Structures
| Structure | Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
关于 + Topic
|
Introduce topic
|
{关于|guānyú}这个，我同意。
|
|
Subject + 与 + Topic + 有关
|
Link two items
|
这与你{有关|yǒuguān}。
|
|
有关 + Noun
|
Modify noun
|
{有关|yǒuguān}的资料。
|
|
关于 + Topic + 的 + Noun
|
Topic description
|
{关于|guānyú}会议的报告。
|
|
Topic + 有关
|
Predicate
|
这与它{有关|yǒuguān}。
|
|
关于 + Topic
|
Sentence start
|
{关于|guānyú}明天，我们去哪？
|
Meanings
These terms are used to specify the subject matter of a discussion, document, or relationship.
Topic Introduction
Introducing a topic to be discussed.
“{关于|guānyú}这个问题，我们需要再考虑。”
“{关于|guānyú}你的建议，我同意。”
Relationship/Connection
Describing something that is related to a specific topic.
“这与你{有关|yǒuguān}。”
“他读了很多与历史{有关|yǒuguān}的书。”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Affirmative
|
关于 + Topic
|
{关于|guānyú}这个，很好。
|
|
Negative
|
与 + Topic + 无关
|
这与我无关。
|
|
Question
|
关于 + Topic + 吗？
|
{关于|guānyú}这个，你觉得呢？
|
|
Relationship
|
A + 与 + B + 有关
|
A与B{有关|yǒuguān}。
|
|
Modifier
|
有关 + Noun
|
{有关|yǒuguān}的文件。
|
|
Topic Start
|
关于 + Topic
|
{关于|guānyú}会议，我们开始吧。
|
Formality Spectrum
关于该项目，我们需要进一步讨论。 (Business/Casual)
关于这个项目，我们需要讨论。 (Business/Casual)
关于这个项目，聊聊吧。 (Business/Casual)
项目的事儿，聊聊？ (Business/Casual)
Topic Specification Map
关于
- 关于 Regarding
有关
- 有关 Related to
Examples by Level
{关于|guānyú}这个，好吗？
About this, is it okay?
{关于|guānyú}书。
About the book.
这与我{有关|yǒuguān}。
This is related to me.
{关于|guānyú}明天。
About tomorrow.
{关于|guānyú}你的工作，你喜欢吗？
About your job, do you like it?
这与电影{有关|yǒuguān}。
This is related to the movie.
{关于|guānyú}那个问题，我不知道。
About that question, I don't know.
你有{有关|yǒuguān}这个的资料吗？
Do you have materials related to this?
{关于|guānyú}这次的会议，我们需要提前准备。
Regarding this meeting, we need to prepare in advance.
这个研究与环境问题{有关|yǒuguān}。
This research is related to environmental issues.
{关于|guānyú}你的建议，我会考虑一下。
Regarding your suggestion, I will consider it.
他写了很多与历史{有关|yǒuguān}的文章。
He wrote many articles related to history.
{关于|guānyú}全球变暖的讨论非常激烈。
The discussion regarding global warming is very intense.
这些数据与我们的销售目标直接{有关|yǒuguān}。
These data are directly related to our sales goals.
{关于|guānyú}法律条款的解释，我们需要咨询律师。
Regarding the interpretation of legal clauses, we need to consult a lawyer.
这与我们之前的协议{有关|yǒuguān}吗？
Is this related to our previous agreement?
{关于|guānyú}该政策的实施，各方意见不一。
Regarding the implementation of the policy, parties have different opinions.
此现象与社会经济因素密切{有关|yǒuguān}。
This phenomenon is closely related to socio-economic factors.
{关于|guānyú}这一理论的局限性，学术界有广泛探讨。
Regarding the limitations of this theory, there is extensive discussion in academia.
一切与此{有关|yǒuguān}的证据都已被销毁。
All evidence related to this has been destroyed.
{关于|guānyú}历史叙事的重构，学者们提出了新的视角。
Regarding the reconstruction of historical narratives, scholars have proposed new perspectives.
该问题与核心利益{有关|yǒuguān}，不容忽视。
This issue is related to core interests and cannot be ignored.
{关于|guānyú}其哲学内涵，我们需深入剖析。
Regarding its philosophical implications, we need to analyze it deeply.
凡与此案{有关|yǒuguān}的人员，均需接受调查。
All personnel related to this case must undergo investigation.
Easily Confused
Both translate to 'about' or 'regarding'.
Both involve 'relation'.
Both relate to talking.
Common Mistakes
我关于这个。
关于这个，我想说...
这是有关的。
这与此有关。
关于我。
关于我，我想说...
有关这个话题。
关于这个话题。
关于他喜欢。
关于他，他喜欢...
这有关我。
这与我有关。
关于这个，我有关。
关于这个，我有一些想法。
关于对于这个...
关于这个...
这个与关于...
这个与...
有关这个，我们讨论。
关于这个，我们讨论。
关于其有关的...
与其有关的...
关于这个话题有关。
关于这个话题，它与...
有关这个话题的讨论。
关于这个话题的讨论。
Sentence Patterns
关于___，我们应该___。
___与___有关。
关于___的资料，请___。
这不仅与___有关，还与___有关。
Real World Usage
关于合同的修改，请查看附件。
关于今天的天气，大家怎么看？
关于我的工作经验，我有五年经验。
关于明天，几点见？
关于该理论的研究，已有诸多成果。
关于订单的问题，请联系客服。
Start with 关于
Don't use 关于 as a verb
Use 有关 for links
Formal vs Informal
Smart Tips
Always start with '关于...'.
Use '与...有关'.
Use '关于' in the subject line.
Use '有关'.
Pronunciation
Tone of 关于
Guānyú - both are first/second tones, keep them smooth.
Tone of 有关
Yǒuguān - third tone followed by first tone.
Topic-Comment
关于这个，↗ 我们讨论。
Rising intonation on the topic marker to signal a shift.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of '关于' as 'Guarding' the start of the sentence, and '有关' as 'Connecting' two things like a chain.
Visual Association
Imagine a gatekeeper (关于) standing at the start of a sentence, and a chain (有关) linking two objects together.
Rhyme
关于 starts the talk, 有关 makes the link walk.
Story
I wanted to talk about my cat. I said, '{关于|guānyú}我的猫，它很可爱。' Then I said, '它的名字与颜色{有关|yǒuguān}。' My friend understood perfectly.
Word Web
Challenge
Write 3 sentences using {关于|guānyú} and 3 using {有关|yǒuguān} about your day.
Cultural Notes
Used frequently in formal meetings and official documents.
Similar usage, but sometimes '有關' is used more broadly in casual speech.
Often mixed with Cantonese structures, but standard Mandarin rules apply in formal settings.
These terms evolved from classical Chinese structures where '关' (guān) meant 'to shut' or 'to relate'.
Conversation Starters
{关于|guānyú}你的爱好，你最喜欢什么？
这与你的工作{有关|yǒuguān}吗？
{关于|guānyú}未来的计划，你有什么想法？
这个现象与全球化{有关|yǒuguān}吗？
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
___这次会议，我们要讨论什么？
Which is correct?
Find and fix the mistake:
我关于这个话题，想谈谈。
Arrange the words in the correct order:
All words placed
Click words above to build the sentence
Regarding the plan, I agree.
Answer starts with: 关于计...
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
A: 你知道这个吗？ B: ___，我不太清楚。
Use: 电影, 有关, 这.
Score: /8
Practice Exercises
8 exercises___这次会议，我们要讨论什么？
Which is correct?
Find and fix the mistake:
我关于这个话题，想谈谈。
有关 / 资料 / 这个 / 的
Regarding the plan, I agree.
Match the phrase.
A: 你知道这个吗？ B: ___，我不太清楚。
Use: 电影, 有关, 这.
Score: /8
Practice Bank
10 exercisesAbout that matter, I don't know.
这封邮件是___面试的。
Arrange: [有关 / 的 / 照片 / 这张 / 是 / 旅游]
这件事跟我___。(This matter has nothing to do with me.)
Match the following phrases:
我有一个问题关于上海。
___ 昨天的派对，这是我的照片。
我想搜一下___减肥的视频。
Arrange: [请 / 规则 / 有关 / 阅读 / 的 / 比赛]
Relevant departments are investigating.
Score: /10
FAQ (8)
Usually no. It's best at the start.
It acts as a predicate (adjective/verb hybrid).
关于 is for topics; 对于 is for attitudes.
Yes, it's very common.
Yes, usually 'A与B有关'.
They are used in both formal and informal contexts.
Check if you used 关于 as a verb.
Yes, e.g., '关于这个，它与历史有关。'
Scaffolded Practice
1
2
3
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
sobre / relacionado con
Spanish prepositions are more flexible in position.
à propos de / lié à
French requires articles (le/la) which Chinese lacks.
bezüglich / verbunden mit
German grammar is case-dependent.
ni tsuite / ni kanshite
Japanese particles come after the noun.
بخصوص / متعلق بـ
Arabic is a root-based language.
关于 / 有关
No case or gender.
Learning Path
Prerequisites
Continue With
Regarding & As For: Using {对于|duìyú}
Overview `{对于|duìyú}` is a crucial Chinese preposition that introduces the specific scope or target of a statement, op...
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 Videos
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...
