鉴于

• Pinyin: jiàn yú
• Hanzi breakdown: 鉴 = 金 (metal) + 监 — to examine, in view of; 于 = preposition meaning at, in, to

Meaning

In view of; considering; given that. A formal preposition introducing reasons or circumstances.

A formal connector used to introduce the basis or reason for a decision or statement. Common in official documents, legal texts, and formal speeches. Usually followed by a situation or fact, then leading to a conclusion or action.

Examples

1. 鉴于当前的经济形势，公司决定推迟扩张计划。 In view of the current economic situation, the company has decided to postpone its expansion plans.
2. 鉴于他的杰出贡献，委员会决定授予他特别奖。 Given his outstanding contributions, the committee decided to award him a special prize.
3. 鉴于以上原因，我们不得不取消这次活动。 In light of the above reasons, we have no choice but to cancel this event.

Usage Guide

Context: official, legal, business

Tone: formal

Do Say

• 鉴于此，我们建议采取以下措施。(In view of this, we recommend taking the following measures.)
• 鉴于您的特殊情况，可以申请延期。(Given your special circumstances, you may apply for an extension.)

Don't Say

• 在日常口语中用'鉴于' (Don't use 鉴于 in casual conversation — it sounds overly formal; use 考虑到 or 因为 instead)

Origin & History

Composed of 鉴 (to examine; in light of) + 于 (at; in). Together they form a formal preposition meaning 'in consideration of.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated speakers