HSK 6
对 N 而言
duì N éryán
for N
Structure
对 + Noun/Noun Phrase + 而言
How it works
This structure is used to introduce a specific perspective or standpoint, translated as 'as far as someone/something is concerned' or 'from the perspective of'. It is more formal than '对...来说' and is frequently used in written Chinese or formal speeches.
Examples
对一家公司而言, 信誉是其生存的根本。
Duì yī jiā gōngsī éryán, xìnyù shì qí shēngcún de gēnběn.
As far as a company is concerned, reputation is the foundation of its survival.
对他而言，能否获得这个机会至关重要。
Duì tā éryán, néngfǒu huòdé zhège jīhuì zhìguān zhòngyào.
For him, whether or not he can get this opportunity is of vital importance.
相对于成年人而言，孩子的语言模仿能力更强。
Xiāngduì yú chéngniánrén éryán, háizi de yǔyán mófǎng nénglì gèng qiáng.
Compared to adults, children's ability to imitate language is stronger.
Common mistakes
Do not use '而言' on its own without the '对' or '相对' prefix; it requires a preposition to link it to the subject.
Tip
Think of '而言' as a formal upgrade for '来说'. If you are writing an academic paper or business report, replace '对...来说' with '对...而言' to sound more professional.
More HSK 6 grammar
See 对 N 而言 in real Chinese
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