至于 vs 关于 (zhìyú vs guānyú): topic shift vs topic introduction
关于 introduces a topic at the start of a sentence or discourse, setting the context (like “regarding” or “about”). 至于 shifts to a new subtopic in the middle of a discussion (like “as for” or “with regard to”). The key difference is discourse flow: 关于 opens a topic, while 至于 redirects attention to a related but different aspect.
Both 关于 and 至于 are prepositions that relate to topics, but they serve different discourse functions. 关于 (guānyú) is used to introduce a topic, often at the beginning of a sentence, establishing what the following discussion is about. It is equivalent to “regarding,” “about,” or “concerning.” 至于 (zhìyú) is used to shift to a new subtopic that is related to a previously mentioned topic; it often appears after the main topic has been established. The distinction is similar to “regarding” (关于) versus “as for” (至于). Understanding the discourse context helps choose the correct one.
When to use each
Use 关于 to introduce the topic of a sentence or whole discourse. It is typically placed at the start of a sentence or clause to indicate what the following statement is about. Often used in titles, headings, or formal contexts (e.g., 关于这件事… 'regarding this matter…').
关于 can also be used within a sentence after a verb, though it's less common in spoken Chinese; it predominantly appears pre-verbally or at the topic position.
Use 至于 to shift from an already introduced topic to a new, related subtopic. It often appears after a previous topic has been mentioned, and it signals that the speaker is now turning to another aspect. For example: '他很聪明，至于学习态度嘛，还不错' (He is very smart; as for his study attitude, it's not bad).
至于 often carries a nuance of contrast or further specification. It can also introduce a topic that the speaker is about to comment on, but it always follows an initial context. In rare cases, 至于 can start a sentence if the previous topic is implicitly understood, but this is less common.
At a glance
| 关于 | 至于 | |
|---|---|---|
| Function in discourse | Introduces a main topic (initial setting) | Shifts to a subtopic after established context |
| Position in sentence | Usually at the beginning of a sentence or clause | Usually after a sentence-initial topic or after a comma; follows some prior discourse |
| English equivalence | 'regarding', 'about', 'concerning' | 'as for', 'with regard to' (topic shift) |
| Formality | Often formal or written | Can be used in both formal and informal contexts |
| Can start a discourse? | Yes, commonly | Rarely; usually requires prior context |
Examples
- 关于关于这个问题，我们需要进一步讨论。Guānyú zhège wèntí, wǒmen xūyào jìnyībù tǎolùn.Regarding this issue, we need further discussion.Introduces the topic 'this issue' at the start of the sentence.
- 至于先说说天气，至于物价，我们等会儿再谈。Xiān shuōshuō tiānqì, zhìyú wùjià, wǒmen děng huìr zài tán.First, let's talk about the weather; as for the prices, we'll discuss them later.Shifts from 'weather' to 'prices' after the initial topic.
- 关于关于他的背景，我知道得不多。Guānyú tā de bèijǐng, wǒ zhīdào de bù duō.Regarding his background, I don't know much.Introduces the topic 'his background'.
- 至于我打算去旅游，至于具体地点，还没决定。Wǒ dǎsuàn qù lǚyóu, zhìyú jùtǐ dìdiǎn, hái méi juédìng.I plan to travel; as for the specific place, I haven't decided yet.Topics: 'travel' (main) then 'specific place' (subtopic).
- 关于关于经济问题，我们下次会议再谈。Guānyú jīngjì wèntí, wǒmen xià cì huìyì zài tán.Regarding economic issues, we'll discuss them at the next meeting.Introduces the topic 'economic issues'.
- 至于他是个好老师，至于教学效果，还需要观察。Tā shì ge hǎo lǎoshī, zhìyú jiàoxué xiàoguǒ, hái xūyào guānchá.He is a good teacher; as for teaching effectiveness, it still needs observation.Shifts from 'teacher' to 'teaching effectiveness'.
Common mistakes
- Using 关于 to shift to a subtopic after the main topic has been introduced (e.g., 先谈谈工作， 关于学习我们以后再聊 ✗ — should be 至于).
- Using 至于 to introduce a topic at the very start of a discourse without prior context (e.g., 至于这个问题，我们需要讨论 ✗ — should be 关于).
- Confusing 关于 and 至于 in written Chinese when a topic is being introduced for the first time; 关于 is correct for headings like '关于……的通知'. 至于 would sound odd.
FAQ
- When do I use 关于 vs 至于?
- Use 关于 to introduce a topic (like “regarding”) at the beginning of a sentence or discourse. Use 至于 to shift to a new subtopic after a topic has been mentioned (like “as for”). If you are starting a conversation or a paragraph with the topic, use 关于; if you are moving from one topic to another related aspect, use 至于.
- Can 至于 be used at the beginning of a sentence?
- Rarely. 至于 usually appears after an initial topic has been established. In some informal contexts, it might start a sentence if the previous topic is implied, but for clarity it's better to follow a prior statement. 关于 is the typical choice for starting a topic.
- Are 关于 and 至于 interchangeable in any situation?
- No, they are not interchangeable because their discourse functions are different. 关于 sets the topic; 至于 shifts to a subtopic. Using the wrong one will confuse the listener about the flow of information.
- Is there a difference in formality?
- Both can be used in formal writing. 关于 is very common in official documents, reports, and titles (e.g., 关于……的通知). 至于 also appears in formal speech but is more common when contrasting or adding a new aspect.