HSK 4

根据

gēn jù

According to (based on)

Explanation

根据 (gēnjù) is a preposition (a word placed before a noun to indicate a relationship: at, with, for...) meaning 'based on, according to', used to state the basis or grounds for an action or decision.

Structure

根据 + [source/basis] + (subject) + [action, result]. For example 根据天气预报 (gēnjù tiānqì yùbào = according to the weather forecast).

When to use

when you want to indicate what something is done based on (opinions, regulations, data, circumstances). 根据 usually comes at the start of the sentence or clause.

Common mistakes

Vietnamese learners often use 根据 with an action instead of a noun; after 根据 there must be a NOUN or noun phrase (根据意见 is correct, but you cannot say 根据讨论了). Also do not confuse 根据 (an objective basis) with 按照 (ànzhào = to act in accordance with a rule/requirement).

Examples

学校根据学生的中文水平分班。
xuéxiàogēnxuéshēngdezhōngwénshuǐpíngfēnbān

The school divides students into classes according to their Chinese proficiency.

根据大家的意见,我们修改了计划。
gēnjiādejiànmenxiūgǎilehuà

Based on everyone's opinions, we revised the plan.

Practice

Test your understanding with a quick quiz

Learn “根据” effectively

The grammar point “根据” (According to (based on)) is one of the key structures at HSK 4. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.

Study tip: read the examples aloud many times to build a natural reflex. Then try making your own sentences for your own situations. Use the audio button to hear and practice accurate pronunciation.

You can also view the full “” lesson to understand the related grammar and vocabulary more deeply.

Frequently asked questions