至于

• Pinyin: zhì yú
• Hanzi breakdown: 至 = arrow reaching target — to arrive; 于 = ancient preposition marker

Meaning

As for; as to; regarding; to go so far as to; to the extent of.

Primarily used as a preposition to introduce a new topic or shift focus to another aspect of discussion. Can also express reaching an extreme point, often in negative constructions. Common in formal discourse for transitioning between topics or addressing specific concerns.

Examples

1. 会议的时间定好了，至于地点，明天再通知大家。 The meeting time has been set. As for the location, we'll notify everyone tomorrow.
2. 事情虽然麻烦，但至于闹到离婚的地步，实在没必要。 The situation is troublesome, but for it to escalate to the point of divorce — that's really unnecessary.
3. 他虽然年轻，但能力很强，至于经验，可以慢慢积累。 He may be young, but his abilities are strong. As for experience, that can be accumulated over time.

Usage Guide

Context: formal speech, written language, discussions

Tone: transitional

Do Say

• 价格我可以接受，至于质量怎么样，得看看再说。(The price is acceptable, but as for the quality, I need to see it first.)
• 不至于吧？(It won't go that far, will it?)

Don't Say

• 至于他很高。(至于 introduces topics, not descriptions — say 关于他的身高 or use 他很高 directly)

Origin & History

Compound of 至 (to arrive at, to reach) and 于 (at, to). Literally means 'arriving at' a particular topic or extent, used to direct attention to a specific matter.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal