HSK 4
在于
zàiyú
is all about
Structure
Subject + 在于 + Noun/Verb Phrase
How it works
The structure '在于' is used to indicate the essence, core, or determining factor of a situation or concept. It often translates to 'lies in,' 'depends on,' or 'is all about' and is frequently used in formal or philosophical contexts.
Examples
成功的关键在于坚持。
Chénggōng de guānjiàn zàiyú jiānchí.
The key to success lies in persistence.
这个问题的解决，主要在于你自己的态度。
Zhège wèntí de jiějué, zhǔyào zàiyú nǐ zìjǐ de tàidù.
The solution to this problem mainly depends on your own attitude.
幸福并不在于你拥有什么，而在于你如何感受。
Xìngfú bìng bù zàiyú nǐ yōngyǒu shénme, ér zàiyú nǐ rúhé gǎnshòu.
Happiness is not about what you have, but how you feel.
Common mistakes
Do not confuse '在于' with '在' (located at). While '在' refers to physical location, '在于' refers to abstract essence or causes.
Tip
Think of '在于' as a way to point out the 'heart' of a matter. It is very common in proverbs and formal speeches.
More HSK 4 grammar
See 在于 in real Chinese
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