Imagine a judge pointing to the evidence on the table and saying, 'According to this (据此), I make my ruling.' The character 据 (ju4) has the radical for 'to hold' or 'to use,' suggesting that what follows is based on what is held or considered.

Use 据此 in formal contexts, as it may sound awkward or overly complex in casual conversation. Be careful not to confuse it with similar expressions like '根据' (gen1 ju4), which means 'according to' but is more commonly used in everyday language.

While 据此 is not explicitly listed in HSK vocabulary, understanding it can enhance comprehension of formal texts, especially in HSK 5 and above. Focus on how it connects ideas in argumentative writing and practice using it in context.

The use of formal language in writing is highly valued in Chinese culture, especially in academic and professional settings. 据此 reflects the importance of clarity and authority in presenting information.

Students often misuse 据此 in informal contexts, such as saying, '据此，我想去吃饭' (According to this, I want to go eat), which sounds unnatural. Instead, use a simpler phrase like '所以' (suǒyǐ) meaning 'so' for casual conversation.