Definition
由 (yóu) is a preposition that marks the doer, source, or responsible party in a sentence — like 'by' in 'done by someone' or 'consisting of something'. Unlike 从 (cóng), which marks a starting point in space/time ('from'), 由 focuses on the agent or composition. It is more formal than 因为 (yīnwèi) for expressing cause.
preposition
by (indicating the agent or doer of an action)consisting offrom (indicating composition or source)for ... to (indicating decision or responsibility)
Easily confused
- 田tiánlook-alikefield; farmland
- 有yǒusound-aliketo have, to possess
- 甲jiǎlook-alikefirst of the ten Heavenly Stems; first in a series; grade A
- 又yòusound-alike(adverb) again (of a past or habitual action)
- 右yòusound-alikeright side; right (direction)
- 油yóusound-alikeoil
- 游yóusound-aliketo swim
Examples
- 由。Zhè cì huódòng yóu tā fùzé.This event is his responsibility.
- 由。Zhège xiǎozǔ yóu wǔ ge rén zǔchéng.This group consists of five people.
- 。Zhè jiàn shì yóu nǐ juédìng.This matter is up to you to decide.
Grammar
Browse more HSK 4 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.