属于

shǔyú

to be classified as

HSK 5

漢字分解

Usage of 属于

The verb 属于 (shǔ yú) is commonly used to indicate that something or someone belongs to a certain category, group, or classification. It often appears in formal or written contexts but is also used in spoken language when specifying membership or classification.

Common contexts

  • Classification of objects or concepts: e.g., 属于文学 (the book belongs to the literature category).
  • Organizational membership: e.g., 属于技术部门 (he belongs to the technical department).
  • Abstract categories such as legal, social, or academic fields.

Collocations and patterns

Nuances

Using 属于 emphasizes formal or clear classification rather than casual possession. It differs from (to have) or (to be) by focusing on category membership. Avoid confusing 属于 with , which has a stronger sense of ownership or affiliation.

Summary

属于 is a versatile verb to express belonging or classification, useful in academic, professional, and everyday contexts where precise categorization is needed.

例文

这本书属于文学类。

Zhè běn shū shǔyú wénxué lèi.

This book belongs to the literature category.

他属于我们公司的技术部门。

Tā shǔyú wǒmen gōngsī de jìshù bùmén.

He belongs to the technical department of our company.

这个问题属于法律范畴。

Zhège wèntí shǔyú fǎlǜ fànchóu.

This issue falls under the category of law.