ànzhào: 按照 - According To, In Accordance With, Following

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Summary: Learn how to use “按照” (ànzhào), a fundamental Chinese preposition meaning “according to” or “in accordance with”. This guide covers its core meaning, cultural context, practical examples, and crucial nuances, like the difference between 按照 (ànzhào) and 根据 (gēnjù), to help you master its usage for following plans, rules, and instructions.

Pinyin (with tone marks): ànzhào

Part of Speech: Preposition

HSK Level: HSK 3

Concise Definition: To do something in accordance with a rule, plan, suggestion, or standard.

In a Nutshell: “按照” is a word that sets up a guideline for an action. Think of it as the setup for “Based on X, we do Y.” It establishes that the following action is not random but is deliberately aligned with a pre-existing instruction, plan, or method. Its core function is to link a standard to an action.

按 (àn): The original meaning is “to press down” or “to push”. In a more abstract sense, it means to “base something on” or “rely on”, as if you are pressing your actions firmly onto a foundation or standard.

照 (zhào): This character's primary meaning is “to shine” or “to reflect”. However, it also carries the meaning of “according to” or “in line with”, as in following a reflection or a model.

When combined, 按照 (ànzhào) creates a strong, unambiguous sense of “strictly following a standard”. 按 provides the foundation, and 照 provides the model to follow. Together they mean to act “in accordance with” a specific guide.

In Chinese culture, there is often a strong emphasis on procedure, order, and following established norms to maintain social harmony. “按照” is the linguistic tool for this value. It's used frequently in contexts where showing procedural correctness is important, such as in business, government, and even family matters.

A Westerner, particularly in American culture which often prizes individualism and “thinking outside the box,” might find the frequent use of “按照” a bit rigid. However, it's not about blind obedience. It's about clarity, accountability, and ensuring everyone is on the same page. Using “按照” signals that one is being diligent, respectful of the established process, and not acting on a whim. It's the difference between saying “I'll handle it” and “I will handle it according to the approved procedure,” with the latter providing a greater sense of reliability and predictability.

根据 (gēnjù) - A preposition meaning “based on” or “on the grounds of”; used for sources of information and evidence, not for instructions to be followed.

依照 (yīzhào) - A more formal synonym for `按照`, often found in legal documents and official announcements. It means “in compliance with”.

照 (zhào) - A shorter, often more colloquial version of `按照`. For example, `照我说的做` (zhào wǒ shuō de zuò) means “Do as I say.”

遵守 (zūnshǒu) - A verb meaning “to abide by” or “to comply with”. It describes the action of following rules. (e.g., 遵守规定 - abide by the regulations).

遵循 (zūnxún) - A more formal verb meaning “to follow” or “to adhere to”, often used for principles, advice, or paths.

规定 (guīdìng) - A noun meaning “rule” or “regulation”. It is very frequently used after `按照` (e.g., 按照规定).

计划 (jìhuà) - A noun meaning “plan”. Another common word found after `按照` (e.g., 按照计划).

要求 (yāoqiú) - A noun meaning “requirement” or “demand”. Used to indicate an action must meet a certain standard (e.g., 按照客户的要求 - according to the client's requirements).