属于

• Pinyin: shǔ yú
• Hanzi breakdown: 属 = 尸 (body) + simplified phonetic component; 于 = ancient preposition character meaning 'at' or 'to'

Meaning

To belong to; to be part of. Indicates ownership, membership, or classification.

Used to express that something falls within a category or belongs to someone. More formal and definitive than 是. Common in academic, legal, and explanatory contexts. Describes a state rather than an action.

Examples

1. 这本书属于图书馆的。 This book belongs to the library.
2. 这件事属于他的责任。 This matter is his responsibility.
3. 这种动物属于保护动物。 This type of animal is a protected species.

Usage Guide

Context: academic, legal, classification

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这个地区属于热带气候。(This region has a tropical climate.)
• 这个问题属于技术方面的。(This issue falls under the technical category.)

Don't Say

• 我属于喜欢吃甜的。(Avoid using 属于 for personal preferences — use 算是 or just 喜欢 instead. 属于 is for objective classification, not opinions.)

Origin & History

属 (belong) + 于 (to/at). The addition of 于 makes the verb more formal and directional.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal