按照 (ànzhào)

按照 is a preposition meaning "according to" or "in accordance with," used to indicate that an action follows a certain rule, plan, or instruction.

Meanings

[preposition] According to; in accordance with; following (a rule, plan, or standard).

Example Sentences

请按照说明书使用这台机器。 Qǐng ànzhào shuōmíngshū shǐyòng zhè tái jīqì. Please use this machine according to the instruction manual.

按照计划，我们明天出发。 Ànzhào jìhuà, wǒmen míngtiān chūfā. According to the plan, we depart tomorrow.

他按照老师的建议修改了作文。 Tā ànzhào lǎoshī de jiànyì xiūgǎi le zuòwén. He revised his essay in accordance with the teacher's suggestions.

按照规定，不能在这里停车。 Ànzhào guīdìng, bù néng zài zhèlǐ tíngchē. According to the regulations, parking is not allowed here.

Collocations

Collocation	Meaning
按照规定	according to regulations
按照计划	according to the plan
按照要求	according to requirements
按照顺序	in order; in sequence
按照说明	according to instructions

Usage Notes

按照 and 根据 both mean "according to," but 按照 emphasizes following a standard or procedure, while 根据 emphasizes using something as the basis for reasoning or judgment. 按照 typically takes concrete rules or plans as its object.

Memory Hook

按 means "to press/follow" and 照 means "to shine/reflect"; imagine pressing a rule firmly and shining a light to show you are following it exactly.