Usage of 以下
The word 以下 is commonly used to indicate a quantity, range, or position that is "below" or "less than" a certain reference point. It can refer to numbers, levels, or items listed after a statement.
Common contexts
- Quantitative limits: Often used with numbers to specify thresholds, e.g., "60分以下" means "below 60 points."
- Listing items: Used to introduce a list or content that follows, similar to "the following."
- Instructions or forms: Frequently appears in formal or written contexts to direct attention to subsequent information.
Collocations and patterns
- 以下是... (The following is...) — to introduce lists or statements.
- 60分以下 (below 60 points) — to specify a numeric limit.
- 以下人员 (personnel below a certain rank or level) — to indicate a group under a certain category.
Notes
- 以下 is more formal and often used in written or official contexts.
- It contrasts with "以上" (above) and "之下" (underneath, more spatial).
- Avoid confusing 以下 with 下面, which is more spatial and less formal.
Understanding 以下 helps learners accurately express limits and introduce content in both spoken and written Mandarin.