Processing keyword: 按照 (ànzhào) - According to

Mandarin Grammar Point: 按照 (ànzhào) - According to

Grammar Point: 按照 (ànzhào) - According to

1. Introduction

In Mandarin, the phrase 按照 (ànzhào) means "according to" or "in accordance with." It is commonly used to indicate that something is based on a set guideline, standard, or information.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: 按照 is used to express conformity or compliance with rules, regulations, or standards.

• Structure: The basic structure of a sentence using 按照 is:

  按照 + (source/information) + (result/conclusion)
  

• Formation Diagram:

  [按照] + [Source/Reference] + [Action/Conclusion]
  

Visual Aids

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• 根据 (gēnjù): Also means "according to," but is more commonly used for citing sources of information, such as data or evidence.
• 依照 (yīzhào): Similar to 按照, but often implies a stricter or more formal adherence to rules. Comparison Table:

  Grammar Point	Usage	Formality
  按照	General guidelines/instructions	Neutral
  根据	Sources of information/data	Neutral to Formal
  依照	Formal adherence to rules	Formal

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:

   • 按照公司的规定，员工必须在八点前上班。
     • According to the company's regulations, employees must arrive by 8 a.m.

2. Informal:

   • 我们按照你的建议去做了。
     • We did it according to your suggestion.

3. Written:

   • 按照合同条款，买方需在三天内支付定金。
     • According to the terms of the contract, the buyer must pay the deposit within three days.

4. Spoken:

   • 按照天气预报，明天会下雨。
     • According to the weather forecast, it will rain tomorrow.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Chinese culture, adherence to rules and guidelines is often emphasized, reflecting the importance of order and respect for authority. Using 按照 conveys a clear commitment to these norms.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• Using 按照 in a formal setting is polite and shows professionalism.
• In informal contexts, it's acceptable but might be replaced with simpler phrases depending on the situation.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 按照惯例 (ànzhào guànlì): “According to convention/customs.”

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Confusing 按照 with 根据.
  • Correction: Use 按照 for guidelines and procedures, and 根据 for sources of information.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Associate 按照 with "hands-on" activities where you follow specific instructions (as in "according to directions").

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 按照 (ànzhào) is used to express "according to" in reference to rules, guidelines, or instructions.
• Understand the differences between 按照, 根据, and 依照 for effective communication.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the meaning of 按照?
   • A) By
   • B) According to
   • C) Under
   • Answer: B) According to
2. Which sentence correctly uses 按照?
   • A) 根据他的意思，我们决定了。
   • B) 按照法律，我们必须提前通知。
   • Answer: B) 按照法律，我们必须提前通知。
3. Can 按照 be used in informal situations?
   • Answer: Yes, it can be used in both formal and informal contexts.