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March 24, 2026
根据(根據)gēnjù(gen1ju4)
根据 (gēn jù) means 'according to' or 'based on' and is used to indicate that something is determined by a certain source or foundation. It is commonly used in contexts such as reports, research, and instructions to refer to the basis of information or decisions.
Frequency#1063DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
According to Chinese culture, the concept of relying on authority or established sources is significant, especially in legal and academic contexts. The importance of 'following' or 'adhering to' guidelines is reflected in various aspects of society, including education and business.
Memory Tip
Imagine a person holding a book (the character 根据) while standing on a solid foundation (基). The book represents the source of information, and the solid ground symbolizes that decisions are based on firm evidence. This connection of standing 'on' something gives a sense of reliance and support.
Meanings of 根据
gēnjù(gen1ju4)
1according to
2based on
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 根据
根据Simplified
根據Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#1063Frequency Rank
个Measure Word
HSK 2.0L3HSK 3.0L3IntermediateTOCFLL4HSKKL2CEFRB1
Podcast: 根据
Podcast: 根据
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AI Study Notes for 根据
Quick Contrast
依据 (yījù) — use 根据 (gēnjù) when emphasizing the source of information, whereas 依据 (yījù) can imply a more formal or legal basis.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a person holding a book (the character 根据) while standing on a solid foundation (基). The book represents the source of information, and the solid ground symbolizes that decisions are based on firm evidence. This connection of standing 'on' something gives a sense of reliance and support.
Usage Notes
Be cautious about the context in which you use 根据, as it is more formal and often found in written language rather than casual conversation. Common collocations include 根据情况 (based on the situation) and 根据法律 (according to the law). Pay attention to the tone; mispronouncing it could lead to confusion with other words.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 3 word, 根据 is essential for forming sentences that reference sources or grounds for arguments. Focus on combining it with verbs and nouns to create phrases that reflect reasoning or evidence, as this will enhance your conversational skills.
Cultural Note
According to Chinese culture, the concept of relying on authority or established sources is significant, especially in legal and academic contexts. The importance of 'following' or 'adhering to' guidelines is reflected in various aspects of society, including education and business.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using 根据 in a context that requires a more casual expression, such as saying 根据我觉得 (according to what I think) instead of using a more conversational phrase. Another mistake is mispronouncing it; the correct tones are gēn (first tone) and jù (fourth tone).
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Pronunciation of 根据
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Grammar Patterns of 根据
根据 functions as a preposition (often called a "coverb" in Chinese). It introduces a phrase that comes BEFORE the main verb (我在家吃饭, 给妈妈打电话), unlike English which puts prepositions after the verb. It carries 5 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Salt the stock to your taste and leave it simmering very gently.
Cultural Notes for 根据
🏮Cultural insight
According to Chinese culture, the concept of relying on authority or established sources is significant, especially in legal and academic contexts. The importance of 'following' or 'adhering to' guidelines is reflected in various aspects of society, including education and business.
Frequently Asked Questions about 根据
While you can use 根据 in casual contexts, it is more suitable for formal situations such as writing or presentations.
Yes, both can mean 'based on', but 根据 is more commonly used in everyday language, while 依据 may sound more formal.
Ensure that you pronounce 'gen' with a level tone and 'ju' with a falling tone to avoid confusion with other similar-sounding words.