Idiomatic phrases with "zai"

You probably already know how to express location with "在". In this article, we'll go more in depth as to how you can make idiomatic phrases using that construction. This kind of form is actually similar to some that we have in English, so it won't be too difficult.

Expressing "on the topic of" with "在...上"

This construction can be translated as "on the topic of" or "in regards to". It can be used to comment on an idea or concept. The examples below will help.

在 + Abstract Concepts + 上, Comment Sentence

Examples

• 在 这 个 问题 上，我们 的 看法 不 一样。In regards to this problem, our perspective is not the same.
• 在 技术 上，这样 做 是 可以 的。In terms of technique, this way of doing things works.
• 在 语法 上，我 知道 我 还 有 很多 问题。In regards to grammar, I know I still have a lot of questions.

Expressing "under" with "在...下"

This construction can be translated (rather directly) as "under" and expresses conditions that affected the comment that comes after.

在 + Abstract Concept + 下， Result/Comment Sentence

Examples

• 在 越 来 越 大 的 工作 压力 下，他 辞职 了。Under bigger and bigger pressure, he resigned.
• 在 太太 的 支持 下，我 自己 开 了 一 个 公司。With the support of my wife, I was able to start my own business.
• 在 父母 的 教育 下，他 考 上 了 大学。Under his parent's tutelage, he was able to test into college.
• 在 这样 的 环境 下，孩子 怎么 能 健康 地 成长？How can kids grow up healthy in this kind of environment?

Expressing "on the topic of" with "在...方面"

This construction is very similar to the "在...上" above. It translates to "in relation to" or "on the topic of".

在 + Abstract Concept + 方面, Comment Sentence

Examples

• 在 教育 方面，中国 还 有 很 大 的 问题。On the topic of education, China still has a lot of problems.
• 在 工资 方面，我 觉得 我们 还 要 再 讨论 一下。On the topic of salaries, I think we should discuss a little more.
• 在 网游 方面，他 是 专家。On the topic of online games, he is an expert.

See Also

• Using "zai" with verbs
• "Zai" following verbs
• Expressing existence in a place

Sources and Further Readings

Books

• Integrated Chinese: Level 2, Part 1 (p. 191) →buy
• Integrated Chinese: Level 2, Part 2 (pp. 264, 325)→buy
• New Practical Chinese Reader 4 (新实用汉语课本4) (pp. 40-1, 164-5, 185) →buy