по отношению к vs в отношении

po otnosheniyu k vs v otnoshenii — toward/in relation to vs regarding/in respect of

What it really means

По отношению к describes an attitude, behavior, comparison, or relationship directed toward a person or thing; к governs the dative. В отношении means “regarding” or “with respect to” and takes the genitive, often in official, legal, or analytical writing. The phrases overlap, but their case government and focus differ.

Examples in natural speech

Он всегда вежлив по отношению к коллегам.
He is always polite toward his colleagues.
По отношению к детям применили мягкий подход.
A gentle approach was used toward the children.
В отношении проекта принято новое решение.
A new decision was made regarding the project.
В отношении нарушителя начато дело.
A case was opened against the offender.
Эта мера эффективна по отношению к малым группам.
This measure is effective in relation to small groups.

Common mistakes

Do not mix the government: по отношению к клиенту, but в отношении клиента. Avoid using в отношении when you mean a personal attitude if по отношению к makes the direction clearer.

Memory tip

По отношению к points a stance toward someone; в отношении files a matter under consideration.

Frequently asked questions

Which case follows по отношению к?

The dative after к: по отношению к компании, к нему, к новым правилам.

Which case follows в отношении?

The genitive: в отношении компании, в отношении него, в отношении новых правил.

Can в отношении mean “against”?

Yes in legal or administrative contexts, as in меры в отношении нарушителя, but the broader meaning is “regarding/with respect to.”

Note: This site uses JavaScript for interactive drills, audio playback, and progress tracking. Please enable JavaScript for the full experience.