This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B1 noun #3,500 most common 10 min read

归属

guishu Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 归属 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 归属 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '归属' (guīshǔ) is quite an advanced word. You usually don't need it yet. You would use simpler words like '家' (home) or '我的' (mine). However, it is good to know that '归' means 'to go back' and '属' is related to 'belonging'. If you see '归属感' (guīshǔ gǎn), just think of it as 'the feeling of being at home with friends or family.' You can imagine a little bird returning to its nest – that is the '归' part. The '属' part is like being in a family group. Even at this level, you can understand the basic idea: 'Where do I belong?' or 'Who is my family?' You won't be expected to use it in a sentence, but recognizing the characters is a great start. '归' (return) and '属' (category/belong) are common characters that will help you later. For example, '属' is the same 'shǔ' in '你属什么?' (What is your zodiac sign?). This shows how '属' is about being in a certain group! So, '归属' is just a formal way to talk about being in your right group or home.

At the A2 level, you are starting to talk more about your life and feelings. '归属' (guīshǔ) might appear in simple texts about hobbies or clubs. For example, if you join a football team, you might feel you 'belong' there. You can learn the phrase '归属感' (guīshǔ gǎn) as a set expression meaning 'sense of belonging.' Instead of just saying 'I like my team' (我喜欢我的队), you can say 'I feel I belong here.' This word is more formal than '喜欢' (to like). It helps you describe why you feel comfortable in a place. You might see it in a simple story about someone moving to a new city and finally finding friends. They might say, 'I finally have a sense of belonging' (我终于有了归属感). Remember, '归' is to return, and '属' is to belong. So it's like returning to a place where you belong. You can use it to talk about your company, your school, or your group of friends. It's a step up from basic A1 vocabulary and makes your Chinese sound more mature.

At the B1 level, you should be able to use '归属' (guīshǔ) in its most common contexts, especially '归属感' (sense of belonging). You are expected to discuss social issues, work environments, and personal feelings. You might use it to explain why you like your job: 'The company culture gives me a strong sense of belonging' (公司的文化给了我强烈的归属感). You should also begin to understand its legal or administrative meaning, such as the 'attribution' of property or responsibilities. For example, in a discussion about a project, you might ask about the '归属' of a task (who is responsible for it). You need to distinguish '归属' from '属于'. Remember that '属于' is a verb ('This belongs to me'), while '归属' is usually a noun ('My belonging'). You will hear this word in news reports, office meetings, and psychological discussions. It's a key word for expressing the human need for community. When writing, try to use the pattern '对...有归属感' to show you understand how it functions grammatically.

At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of '归属' (guīshǔ) in both abstract and concrete senses. You can use it to discuss complex topics like national identity, cultural heritage, and corporate management. You should be comfortable discussing the '归属问题' (issue of attribution) in legal or historical contexts, such as the ownership of cultural relics or disputed territories. You can also use it to describe spiritual or philosophical belonging. For example, you might write an essay about how globalization affects people's 'cultural belonging' (文化归属). You should be able to distinguish '归属' from more specific terms like '隶属' (subordination) or '归宿' (final destination). In a professional setting, you might use it to discuss 'organizational belonging' and its impact on productivity. Your sentences should be more complex, perhaps using '归属' as a subject or an object in formal structures. You should also recognize it in literature, where it might be used metaphorically to describe a character's search for their place in the world.

At the C1 level, you are expected to use '归属' (guīshǔ) with nuance and precision. You should understand its historical etymology and how it fits into the broader landscape of Chinese social and political thought. You might use it in academic writing to discuss 'territorial sovereignty and attribution' (领土主权与归属) or 'the psychological mechanism of group belonging' (群体归属的心理机制). You can use the word to analyze social phenomena, such as the lack of belonging among urban migrant populations. You should be able to use it in highly formal registers, such as legal contracts or official government statements, where '归属' defines the final jurisdiction or ownership of assets. You might also explore its use in poetry or high literature, where it can represent the ultimate return of the soul to its origins. Your command of the word should include its collocations with words like '明确' (to clarify), '争议' (controversy), and '缺失' (lack/absence). You can discuss the subtle differences between '归属感' and '认同感' (sense of identity) in a sociological debate.

At the C2 level, you have mastered '归属' (guīshǔ) to the point of using it as a native speaker or a scholar would. You can navigate its most abstract and technical applications across various fields—from international law and property rights to existential philosophy and psychoanalysis. You can use it to discuss the 'ontological belonging' of an individual or the 'historical attribution' of ancient civilizations. You are aware of the word's resonance in classical Chinese literature, even if the modern form is different. You can use '归属' to articulate complex arguments about the nature of the state, the family, and the individual. In a debate, you might challenge the '归属' of an idea or a movement, using the word to dissect the origins and ownership of intellectual property. Your use of the word is effortless, whether you are writing a legal brief, a philosophical treatise, or a deeply moving personal memoir. You understand how '归属' interacts with other sophisticated concepts like '羁绊' (bonds/fetters) and '根植' (deeply rooted). At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a tool for precise and profound expression.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

归属 in 30 Seconds

归属 (guīshǔ) means 'belonging' or 'attribution.'
It is most commonly used in the phrase '归属感' (sense of belonging).
It can also refer to legal ownership or administrative jurisdiction.
It is a formal noun, distinct from the verb '属于' (to belong to).

The Chinese term 归属 (guīshǔ) is a sophisticated noun that encapsulates the deep human need for connection and the legal or administrative reality of where something or someone belongs. At its core, it refers to the state of being a part of a larger entity, whether that entity is a family, a social group, a company, or even a nation. In modern Mandarin, you will most frequently encounter it in the phrase 归属感 (guīshǔ gǎn), which translates to a 'sense of belonging.' This concept is central to psychology, human resources, and sociology, describing the emotional security found when one feels accepted and integrated into a community.

Emotional Dimension: The feeling of being 'at home' in a group. It is the opposite of alienation or loneliness. For example, an employee might feel a strong sense of 归属 to their team if they share the same values and goals.
Administrative/Legal Dimension: The formal attribution of ownership or jurisdiction. This is often used in discussions about property rights, historical artifacts, or administrative divisions. For instance, determining the 归属 of a disputed piece of land involves legal and historical analysis.

在这个大城市里，我终于找到了自己的归属。(In this big city, I have finally found my place of belonging.)

Historically, the character 归 (guī) means to return, specifically to return to one's home or origin. The character 属 (shǔ) means to belong to a category or to be under the jurisdiction of someone. Together, they create a powerful image of returning to the place where you naturally belong or are categorized. In a corporate setting, HR professionals often focus on 'employee belonging' to reduce turnover. They believe that if an employee lacks 归属感, they are more likely to leave. In political discourse, 归属 might refer to the sovereignty of a territory. It is a word that bridges the gap between the deeply personal and the strictly formal.

我们需要加强员工对公司的归属感。(We need to strengthen employees' sense of belonging to the company.)

Cultural Nuance: In Chinese culture, which is traditionally collectivist, 归属 is often tied to the family (家) or the ancestral hometown (籍贯). Feeling like a 'rootless weed' (无根的草) is a common metaphor for lacking this sense of belonging.

When you use this word, you are often discussing identity. Are you defined by your job? Your family? Your hobby? The group that provides you with 归属 is the group that defines a part of who you are. In academic writing, you might see phrases like '领土归属' (territorial attribution) or '文化归属' (cultural belonging). It is a versatile word that scales from the intimacy of a relationship to the grand scale of international relations.

这件文物的归属问题一直存在争议。(The ownership/attribution of this cultural relic has always been controversial.)

漂泊多年，他终于找到了心灵的归属。(After drifting for years, he finally found a home for his soul.)

Using 归属 correctly requires understanding its grammatical flexibility as both a noun and, in specific formal contexts, a verb. However, its most common usage is as a noun modified by other terms. Let's break down the primary patterns you will see in daily and professional life. The most common pattern is [Group/Concept] + 归属感, which describes the feeling of belonging. Another common pattern is [Object] + 的归属, describing who or what something belongs to.

Pattern: [Subject] 对 [Group] 有归属感: This is the standard way to say someone feels they belong somewhere. For example: '我对这个班级很有归属感' (I feel a strong sense of belonging to this class).

新员工往往需要时间来建立对公司的归属感。(New employees often need time to build a sense of belonging to the company.)

In formal settings, 归属 acts as a noun referring to the final 'destination' or 'ownership' of something. If you are talking about a legal case regarding a child's custody or a company's assets, you might discuss their 归属问题 (issue of belonging/attribution). This usage is very common in news reports and legal documents. It implies a definitive decision: where does this thing legally or logically end up?

Pattern: [Object] 的归属 + [Verb]: Example: '这笔资金的归属尚未确定' (The attribution/ownership of this fund has not yet been determined).

这块土地的历史归属非常复杂。(The historical attribution of this land is very complex.)

You can also use 归属 to describe a person's final resting place or their life's ultimate purpose. This is a more poetic or philosophical usage. When someone says they have found their '归宿' (a related but slightly different word, often used interchangeably in casual speech, though 归宿 is more about the final destination), they are talking about finding peace. However, 归属 remains more focused on the relationship between the individual and the group.

在多元文化的环境中，寻找文化归属是一个挑战。(In a multicultural environment, finding cultural belonging is a challenge.)

Finally, consider the negative form. Lacking 归属感 is often described using the word 缺失 (missing) or 缺乏 (lack). '他感到归属感的缺失' (He feels a lack of sense of belonging). This is a very common way to express social isolation or feeling like an outsider. In a world of global migration, the topic of 归属 is more relevant than ever, as people navigate multiple identities and loyalties.

Pattern: 寻找/追求 + 归属: Example: '人类天生就在寻找某种形式的归属' (Humans are naturally looking for some form of belonging).

这种团队合作增强了大家的归属感。(This teamwork strengthened everyone's sense of belonging.)

You will encounter 归属 in a variety of contexts, ranging from the highly emotional to the strictly bureaucratic. Understanding these 'habitats' for the word will help you use it naturally. It is not a word you use to buy vegetables at the market, but it is a word you will hear in any meaningful conversation about community, career, or identity.

1. The Modern Workplace: In corporate culture, 归属感 is a buzzword. Managers talk about it in meetings: 'How can we improve the employees' sense of belonging?' (我们如何提高员工的归属感？). If a company has a high turnover rate, the HR report might mention that 'employees lack a sense of 归属 to the corporate values.'

优秀的文化能让员工产生强烈的公司归属感。(A great culture can make employees feel a strong sense of belonging to the company.)

2. **Psychology and Self-Help Podcasts:** If you listen to Chinese podcasts about mental health or personal growth, 归属 will come up frequently. Experts discuss the hierarchy of needs, where belonging is a fundamental requirement after safety. You might hear: 'Everyone needs a place of 归属 to feel mentally healthy.' (每个人都需要一个归属地来保持心理健康。)

2. Legal and Political News: When watching CCTV News or reading papers like the People's Daily, 归属 is used to discuss sovereignty. 'The 归属 of the islands' (岛屿的归属) or 'The administrative 归属 of the new district' (新区行政归属). It sounds very official and definitive here.

法律明确了这笔遗产的最终归属。(The law clarified the final attribution/ownership of this inheritance.)

3. **Immigration and Diaspora Stories:** In literature or documentaries about the Chinese diaspora, the conflict of 归属 is a central theme. A second-generation immigrant might say, 'I feel a 归属 to both cultures, but sometimes I feel I belong to neither.' (我对两种文化都有归属感，但有时觉得哪儿都不属于我。)

他在书里探讨了现代人的精神归属问题。(In his book, he explored the issue of modern people's spiritual belonging.)

4. **Academic Lectures:** In sociology or anthropology lectures, professors use 归属 to define 'In-groups' and 'Out-groups'. They might talk about 'identity and belonging' (身份与归属). It is a key term in understanding how human societies form and maintain boundaries. This is the most abstract use of the word, focusing on the theoretical bonds between individuals and systems.

3. Real Estate and Property: In contracts, you will see '产权归属' (property rights attribution). This is the most 'practical' use—it literally means who owns the house or the land. If you are buying a home in China, you will definitely see this word on the legal documents.

While 归属 is a B1 level word, it is often misused by learners who confuse it with its simpler relative, 属于 (shǔyú). Understanding the difference in part of speech and nuance is key to avoiding 'foreign-sounding' Chinese. Let's look at the most frequent errors.

Mistake 1: Using '归属' as a simple verb for possession: Incorrect: 我归属这个手机。 (I belong this phone - nonsensical).
Correct: 这个手机属于我。 (This phone belongs to me).
Explanation: 归属 is usually a noun. Even when used as a verb, the subject is typically the object being owned, and the context must be very formal.

Error: 他对他的家没有属于感。(He doesn't have a sense of 'belong to' his home.)
Correct: 他对他的家没有归属感。

Mistake 2: Confusing 归属 (guīshǔ) with 归还 (guīhuán). Because both start with '归' (return), students sometimes use '归属' when they mean to return an object. '归还' is the action of giving something back (like a library book), while '归属' is the state of belonging. You '归还' a book to the library, and then the book's '归属' is the library.

Mistake 3: Overusing it in casual conversation. Saying '我对这个火锅店有归属感' (I have a sense of belonging to this hotpot restaurant) is grammatically correct but sounds a bit too dramatic or academic for a casual lunch. In casual settings, you'd more likely say '我经常来这儿' (I come here often) or '我挺喜欢这儿的' (I really like it here).

Mistake 4: Confusing '归属' and '归宿': These are very close. 归宿 (guīsù) refers to a final destination or a place to settle down (often used for marriage or the end of life). 归属 is more about the relationship or identity. You find a 归宿 (a home/husband/wife), but you feel a 归属感 (a sense of belonging).

Wrong: 他的精神属于在哪里？
Right: 他的精神归属在哪里？(Where does his spirit belong?)

Mistake 5: Forgetting the particle '对' (toward). When expressing a sense of belonging to a group, you must use '对...有归属感'. Leaving out the '对' makes the sentence collapse. It's like saying 'I have belonging the company' instead of 'I have a sense of belonging *to* the company.'

Chinese has several words that touch upon the concept of belonging or being part of something. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are talking about feelings, legal status, or hierarchical position.

归属 (guīshǔ) vs. 属于 (shǔyú): 属于 is a verb. It is the most common way to say 'belongs to'. 'This is mine' = '这属于我'. 归属 is a noun/formal term. Use 属于 for everyday possession and 归属 for deep emotional connection or formal attribution.
归属 (guīshǔ) vs. 隶属 (lìshǔ): 隶属 is more about hierarchy and subordination. It means 'to be subordinate to' or 'to be under the jurisdiction of'. For example, 'This hospital is 隶属 to the university.' It lacks the emotional 'feeling of home' that 归属 carries.

虽然他的部门隶属于总部，但他并没有什么归属感。(Although his department is subordinate to the headquarters, he doesn't have much sense of belonging.)

Another related word is 认同 (rèntóng), meaning 'identity' or 'to identify with'. While 归属 is about where you belong, 认同 is about who you feel you are similar to. Often, 认同感 (sense of identity) and 归属感 go hand in hand—you feel you belong to the group you identify with.

归属 (guīshǔ) vs. 归宿 (guīsù): As mentioned before, 归宿 is the 'final destination'. If you are looking for a place to retire, you are looking for a 归宿. If you are looking for a community that accepts you, you are looking for 归属.

对于流浪者来说，一个温暖的家就是最好的归宿。(For a wanderer, a warm home is the best final destination.)

Lastly, consider 包含 (bāohán) or 包括 (bāokuò). These simply mean 'include'. They are purely logical and contain no emotion or legal attribution. If a list includes your name, it 包括 your name. But your 归属 is the group that the list represents. Use 归属 when you want to emphasize the deep connection or the formal 'home' of an object or person.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient China, '归' was specifically used when a woman got married. Her marriage was her '归'—her ultimate return to her new home.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɡweɪ ʃuː/

US /ɡweɪ ʃuː/

First syllable 'guī' is level (Tone 1), second syllable 'shǔ' is falling-rising (Tone 3).

Rhymes With

归 (guī) rhymes with: 推 (tuī), 追 (zhuī), 亏 (kuī) 属 (shǔ) rhymes with: 补 (bǔ), 古 (gǔ), 苦 (kǔ)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'gui' as 'goo-ee' (should be one syllable: gway).
Pronouncing 'shu' as 'su' (lacking the 'h' sound).
Mixing up the tones, especially changing the third tone of 'shǔ' to a fourth tone.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

The characters are somewhat complex but common in news and literature.

Writing 5/5

Writing '属' (shǔ) correctly requires practice with stroke order.

Speaking 3/5

Easy to pronounce if you master the 'ui' and 'sh' sounds.

Listening 3/5

Distinctive enough to recognize in context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

属于 (shǔyú) 回家 (huíjiā) 地方 (dìfāng) 感觉 (gǎnjué) 家 (jiā)

Learn Next

认同 (rèntóng) 隶属 (lìshǔ) 核心 (héxīn) 凝聚力 (níngjùlì) 范畴 (fànchóu)

Advanced

本体论 (Ontology) 主权 (Sovereignty) 社会建构 (Social construction) 异化 (Alienation) 羁绊 (Bonds)

Grammar to Know

Using '对...有...感' for feelings.

我对这个城市有强烈的归属感。

Noun modification with '的'.

这件文物的归属是一个谜。

Formal verb usage of '归属于'.

这些权利归属于全体公民。

Adverbial phrases with '在...方面'.

在文化归属方面，他面临很多挑战。

Negative structures with '缺乏' or '缺失'.

长期出差让他感到了归属感的缺失。

Examples by Level

我爱我的家，家是我的归属。

I love my home; home is where I belong.

Here '归属' is used as a simple noun meaning 'place of belonging'.

他在学校找到了归属。

He found a place of belonging at school.

A1 students can understand this as 'finding a home' in a group.

每个人都需要归属。

Everyone needs to belong.

Simple subject-verb-object structure.

这就是我的归属地。

This is the place where I belong.

'归属地' means 'place of belonging'.

小鸟的归属是森林。

The forest is where the little bird belongs.

Using '归属' to show a natural home.

你有归属感吗？

Do you have a sense of belonging?

Introducing the common phrase '归属感'.

我们是一个团队，这里是你的归属。

We are a team; this is where you belong.

Using '归属' to welcome someone.

书的归属是图书馆。

The library is where the book belongs.

Simple attribution of an object.

我在这家公司很有归属感。

I have a strong sense of belonging in this company.

Using '对...有归属感' pattern.

找到归属感对我很重要。

Finding a sense of belonging is very important to me.

'找到归属感' is a common verb-object phrase.

这个班级让学生们有了归属感。

This class gave the students a sense of belonging.

Using '让...有了...' structure.

他不知道自己的归属在哪里。

He doesn't know where he belongs.

Using '归属' to represent one's place in the world.

运动俱乐部是他的归属。

The sports club is where he belongs.

Identifying a group as a place of belonging.

我们应该给孩子更多的归属感。

We should give children more of a sense of belonging.

'给...归属感' (give someone a sense of belonging).

这只猫终于找到了它的归属。

The cat finally found its home (where it belongs).

Metaphorical use for animals finding a home.

友谊给了我一种归属感。

Friendship gave me a sense of belonging.

Abstract concept (friendship) as the source of belonging.

这种文化上的归属感很难获得。

This kind of cultural sense of belonging is hard to obtain.

'文化上的' modifies '归属感'.

我们需要明确这笔财产的归属。

We need to clarify the ownership/attribution of this property.

'明确...的归属' is a formal professional phrase.

由于经常搬家，他缺乏归属感。

Because he moves often, he lacks a sense of belonging.

'缺乏' (lack) is a common verb used with '归属感'.

这件文物的归属权仍有争议。

The right of ownership of this cultural relic is still in dispute.

'归属权' specifically means ownership rights.

员工的归属感直接影响工作效率。

Employees' sense of belonging directly affects work efficiency.

Discussing cause and effect in a professional context.

他在异国他乡寻找灵魂的归属。

He is looking for a home for his soul in a foreign land.

More poetic use of '归属'.

这个社区增强了居民的归属感。

This community strengthened the residents' sense of belonging.

'增强' (strengthen) is a common collocation.

法律规定了这些土地的行政归属。

The law stipulates the administrative attribution of these lands.

'行政归属' refers to which government branch something belongs to.

身份认同与归属感是密不可分的。

Identity and sense of belonging are inseparable.

Using '密不可分' to show a strong connection.

该地区的历史归属一直是一个复杂的问题。

The historical attribution of this region has always been a complex issue.

Discussing historical complexity.

企业文化的核心在于建立员工的归属感。

The core of corporate culture lies in establishing a sense of belonging for employees.

'在于' (lies in) used for definitions.

他不再纠结于自己到底归属于哪个群体。

He no longer obsesses over which group he belongs to.

Using '归属于' as a formal verb phrase.

全球化时代，人们的归属感变得多元化。

In the era of globalization, people's sense of belonging has become diversified.

Discussing social trends with '变得' (become).

这笔捐款的归属必须公开透明。

The attribution/use of this donation must be open and transparent.

'公开透明' (open and transparent) in a legal context.

他试图通过写作来寻找心理上的归属。

He tries to find psychological belonging through writing.

'通过...来' structure.

该岛屿的归属权由国际法庭裁定。

The ownership of the island was decided by an international court.

Highly formal legal/political sentence.

我们需要从社会学角度分析这种归属感的缺失。

We need to analyze this lack of sense of belonging from a sociological perspective.

'从...角度' (from the perspective of).

这种强烈的民族归属感在危机时刻尤为明显。

This strong sense of national belonging is particularly evident in times of crisis.

Using '尤为' (especially) for emphasis.

文学作品往往反映了人类对精神归属的永恒追求。

Literary works often reflect humanity's eternal pursuit of spiritual belonging.

'反映' (reflect) and '永恒追求' (eternal pursuit).

在主权争议中，领土归属是核心议题。

In sovereignty disputes, territorial attribution is the core issue.

Formal political terminology.

现代都市人的孤独感源于归属感的日益淡薄。

The loneliness of modern city dwellers stems from the increasing weakening of their sense of belonging.

'源于' (stems from) and '日益淡薄' (increasingly thinning/weakening).

合同中明确规定了知识产权的最终归属。

The contract clearly stipulates the final attribution of intellectual property rights.

'知识产权' (intellectual property rights).

多元文化教育旨在培养学生的文化归属感。

Multicultural education aims to cultivate students' sense of cultural belonging.

'旨在' (aims to) and '培养' (cultivate).

这种归属关系的建立需要长期的情感投入。

The establishment of this relationship of belonging requires long-term emotional investment.

'情感投入' (emotional investment).

在全球流动的背景下，传统的地域归属观念正在解构。

In the context of global mobility, traditional concepts of territorial belonging are being deconstructed.

Academic terms: '背景下' (under the context), '解构' (deconstruct).

个体在宏大叙事中往往难以找到真实的归属。

Individuals often find it difficult to find a true sense of belonging within grand narratives.

'宏大叙事' (grand narrative), a philosophical term.

该法案对资产归属的界定存在法律上的模糊地带。

The definition of asset attribution in this bill has a legal gray area.

'界定' (definition/delimitation), '模糊地带' (gray area).

这种归属感并非天生，而是社会建构的结果。

This sense of belonging is not innate but a result of social construction.

'并非...而是...' (not... but...).

对故土的依恋构成了他生命中最深沉的归属。

His attachment to his native land constitutes the deepest sense of belonging in his life.

'依恋' (attachment), '构成' (constitute).

我们需要重新审视网络社群对青年人归属感的影响。

We need to re-examine the impact of online communities on young people's sense of belonging.

'重新审视' (re-examine).

在存在主义看来，人类的归属是一种自我的选择。

From an existentialist perspective, human belonging is a choice of the self.

'在...看来' (from the perspective of...).

权力的归属往往决定了社会资源的分配方式。

The attribution of power often determines the way social resources are distributed.

Formal sociological analysis.

Synonyms

隶属属于归附依附

Antonyms

疏离独立

Common Collocations

归属感

归属权

行政归属

文化归属

最终归属

领土归属

群体归属

产权归属

身份归属

灵魂归属

Common Phrases

缺乏归属感

— Lacking a sense of belonging.

他在新环境中感到缺乏归属感。

建立归属感

— To establish or build a sense of belonging.

团建活动有助于建立归属感。

明确归属

— To clarify who something belongs to.

合同必须明确责任归属。

归属地

— Place of origin or belonging (often used for phone numbers).

查询手机号码归属地。

精神归属

— Spiritual belonging.

阅读是他精神归属的源泉。

历史归属

— Historical attribution.

研究这件文物的历史归属。

部门归属

— Which department one belongs to.

请确认您的部门归属。

情感归属

— Emotional belonging.

家是每个人最终的情感归属。

归属意识

— Consciousness or awareness of belonging.

培养员工的归属意识。

职责归属

— Attribution of duties.

这项工作的职责归属尚不清楚。

Often Confused With

归属 vs 归还 (guīhuán)

Means 'to return an object'. Don't use it for 'belonging'.

归属 vs 归纳 (guīnà)

Means 'to summarize' or 'to induce'. It shares the '归' character but is about logic.

归属 vs 归宿 (guīsù)

Means 'final destination/home'. Often used for marriage or the end of life.

Idioms & Expressions

"认祖归宗"

— To identify with and return to one's ancestors/roots.

失散多年的他终于认祖归宗了。

Formal/Literary

"叶落归根"

— Leaves fall and return to the roots (returning home in old age).

他在海外生活多年，最终还是想叶落归根。

Common/Literary

"名花有主"

— The beautiful flower has a master (already taken/married).

别追她了，人家早已名花有主。

Informal/Humorous

"物归原主"

— Property returns to its original owner.

捡到钱包后，他立刻物归原主。

Neutral

"各得其所"

— Everyone/everything finds its proper place.

经过调解，双方各得其所，解决了争议。

Formal

"众望所归"

— To enjoy the confidence of the people; where everyone's hopes rest.

他当选经理是众望所归。

Formal

"宾至如归"

— Guests feel at home (excellent hospitality).

这家酒店的服务让人宾至如归。

Common

"视死如归"

— To look upon death as returning home (fearless of death).

战士们视死如归，英勇战斗。

Literary/Heroic

"殊途同归"

— Different paths lead to the same destination.

我们的方法不同，但殊途同归。

Neutral

"大势所趋"

— The general trend of events.

保护环境是全球的大势所趋。

Formal

Easily Confused

归属 vs 属于 (shǔyú)

Both mean 'belong'.

'属于' is a common verb for possession. '归属' is a formal noun for the state of belonging or attribution.

这属于我 (Verb) vs. 财产的归属 (Noun).

归属 vs 隶属 (lìshǔ)

Both involve a relationship of being part of something.

'隶属' is strictly hierarchical/administrative (subordinate to). '归属' can be emotional and legal.

该分行隶属于总行。

归属 vs 认同 (rèntóng)

Both relate to identity and groups.

'认同' is 'to identify with' (thinking you are like them). '归属' is 'to belong to' (feeling you are part of them).

文化认同 vs. 文化归属感。

归属 vs 占据 (zhànjù)

Both involve a relationship between a thing and a space.

'占据' is 'to occupy' or 'to take up'. '归属' is the right or feeling of being there.

占据地盘 vs. 领土归属。

归属 vs 包含 (bāohán)

Both involve being part of a whole.

'包含' is 'to contain/include' (passive). '归属' implies a definitive connection or ownership.

书中包含很多例子。

Sentence Patterns

A 是 B 的归属。

家是每个人的归属。

S 对 O 有归属感。

员工对公司有归属感。

S 寻找/寻求归属感。

他在寻找一种文化归属感。

明确 O 的归属。

我们需要明确这笔资金的归属。

O 归属于 S。

该领土归属于邻国。

...归属感的缺失。

现代社会普遍存在归属感的缺失。

从...的角度看归属。

从社会学角度看，归属是人类的基本需求。

O 的归属权由...决定/裁定。

该专利的归属权由法院最终裁定。

Word Family

Nouns

归属感 (Sense of belonging)

归属权 (Right of attribution)

归属地 (Place of belonging)

Verbs

归属于 (To belong to - formal)

归属 (To attribute/belong - formal)

Adjectives

有归属感的 (Having a sense of belonging)

属于 (To belong to)

隶属 (To be subordinate to)

归宿 (Final destination)

归还 (To return something)

属性 (Attribute/Property)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in professional, academic, and psychological contexts.

Common Mistakes

我归属这个小组。 → 我属于这个小组。 / 我对这个小组有归属感。
'归属' is not typically used as a direct verb for personal belonging in casual speech.
他的归属感很低于公司。 → 他对公司的归属感很低。
The preposition '对' should come before the object, not after the noun '归属感'.
我要归属这本作业给老师。 → 我要把这本作业归还给老师。
Confusing '归属' (belonging) with '归还' (returning).
这个手机的归属感是我。 → 这个手机的归属权是我。 / 这个手机属于我。
'归属感' is for people's feelings. For objects, use '归属权' or '属于'.
他在北京没有归属。 → 他在北京没有归属感。
In an emotional context, the '感' (feeling) is usually necessary.

Tips

Always use '对...有'

When talking about feelings, the most natural structure is 'Subject + 对 + Object + 有归属感'. Don't forget the '对' (toward)!

Pair with '感'

90% of the time in daily life, you will use '归属感'. Learn it as one single unit of meaning.

Use in Business

In an interview, saying you want to find a company where you have a '归属感' shows you are looking for a long-term commitment.

Legal Contexts

When writing about ownership of property or land, use '归属' or '归属权' instead of '属于' to sound more professional.

Emphasis

If you want to emphasize a deep connection, you can say '强烈的归属感' (strong sense of belonging).

Phone Calls

If you hear '归属地' on your phone, it's just telling you where the caller is from.

Collectivism

Understand that '归属' is a very important value in Chinese society, often prioritized over individual independence.

Vs. Identity

Remember that '认同' is who you think you are, but '归属' is where you feel you belong.

The 'Gui' Return

Associate 'Gui' with 'Return'. If you can't return to a place, you probably don't have '归属' there.

Philosophical Use

Read modern Chinese essays (散文) to see how authors use '归属' to describe the human condition and the search for meaning.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Gui' (归) as 'Go home' and 'Shu' (属) as 'Shoes'. When you 'Go home' and take off your 'Shoes', you feel a sense of belonging (归属)!

Visual Association

Imagine a jigsaw puzzle piece (the individual) finally clicking into the larger puzzle (the group). That 'click' is the moment of 归属.

Word Web

家 (Home) 团队 (Team) 身份 (Identity) 安全感 (Security) 文化 (Culture) 法律 (Law) 所有权 (Ownership) 根 (Roots)

Challenge

Try to write three sentences using '归属感' about your favorite hobby, your hometown, and your current job or school.

Word Origin

The word is composed of two ancient characters. '归' (guī) originally depicted a woman returning to her husband's home, later broadening to mean 'return' or 'belong to'. '属' (shǔ) originally meant a tail or something attached, evolving to mean 'category' or 'under the jurisdiction of'.

Original meaning: To return and be attached to a specific group or place.

Sino-Tibetan (Mandarin Chinese)

Cultural Context

Be careful when discussing territorial '归属' in China, as it can be a highly sensitive political topic.

In English, 'belonging' is often more informal. '归属' sounds more serious and can cover both 'belonging' and 'attribution'.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs (often translated in China using 归属感). The concept of 'Leaf falling to the root' (叶落归根). Legal disputes over the 'Summer Palace' relics (文物的归属).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Workplace Management

提高员工归属感
公司文化归属
团队凝聚力与归属
职业归属感

Legal/Property

产权归属
遗产归属
责任归属
归属权争议

Psychology/Self-help

寻找心理归属
归属感的缺失
社交归属需要
情感归属地

Sociology/Identity

文化归属感
民族归属
群体归属
身份认同与归属

News/Politics

领土归属问题
行政区划归属
主权归属
明确管辖归属

Conversation Starters

"你在现在的公司有归属感吗？"

"你觉得什么是建立归属感最重要的因素？"

"作为一个外国人在中国，你如何找到自己的归属？"

"你认为家庭是唯一的归属吗？"

"如果一个团队缺乏归属感，会发生什么？"

Journal Prompts

描述一个让你感到有强烈归属感的地方。为什么那个地方会有这种感觉？

讨论在数字化时代，网络社群是否能提供真实的归属感。

反思你生命中不同阶段的归属感是如何变化的。

如果你不得不离开你的祖国，你会在哪里寻找新的文化归属？

探讨‘自由’与‘归属’之间的矛盾：我们是为了自由而放弃归属，还是为了归属而牺牲自由？

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but it sounds very formal or poetic. In a relationship, you might say '我是属于你的' (I belong to you) or '你是我心灵的归属' (You are the home of my soul). The latter is very romantic and deep.

'属于感' is not a standard word in Chinese. You should always use '归属感' (guīshǔ gǎn) to express a sense of belonging.

Yes, very often! It is used to discuss who owns intellectual property (IP归属), which department a person belongs to (部门归属), and employee engagement (员工归属感).

You can say '我觉得在这里很舒服' (I feel comfortable here) or '我觉得这里像家一样' (I feel like this is home).

Yes, in formal writing, you can say 'A 归属于 B' (A belongs to B). However, in most spoken Chinese, we prefer the noun form '归属' or the verb '属于'.

It refers to the city or region where a mobile phone number was registered. When you get a call, your phone might show the '归属地' (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai).

Generally, yes. Having a '归属' is considered a fundamental human need. However, in legal disputes, the '归属' of an object can be a source of conflict.

The most common opposites are '孤独感' (loneliness), '疏离感' (sense of alienation), or '缺乏归属感' (lack of sense of belonging).

Yes. You can talk about the '归属' of an animal to its habitat or its owner in a formal or scientific context.

Start with the '尸' radical on top. Then write the middle part (like a '口' but with an extra stroke), and finally the bottom part. It has 12 strokes in total.