vzhledem

Vzhledem is a Czech noun in instrumental singular form of the noun vzhled, which means appearance or aspect. In modern usage it is most commonly found in fixed expressions with the preposition k, forming a causal or evaluative phrase meaning in view of, with regard to, or taking into account.

The most common construction is vzhledem k, followed by a clause or a noun phrase. For example: vzhledem k tomu, že pršelo (given that it rained) or vzhledem k okolnostem (in view of the circumstances). The expression is formal and frequent in official, administrative, academic, and journalistic registers. It can be paraphrased by s ohledem na or z hlediska, depending on nuance: s ohledem na emphasizes consideration of factors, while z hlediska refers to a particular perspective or aspect.

Grammatical notes: vzhledem is the instrumental singular of vzhled and is used with the preposition k to introduce what is being considered. In many sentences the phrase is extended by a clause introduced by že, as in vzhledem k tomu, že..., or by a noun phrase such as vzhledem k okolnostem.

Etymology and related terms: vzhled means appearance or look; vzhledem has developed as part of fixed locutions meaning “in view of” or “bearing in mind.” Related expressions include s ohledem na, z hlediska, and z ohledu na, which convey similar meanings in different stylistic contexts.