as for and as to

Question

What's the difference between "as for sth" and "as to sth"?

Some grammar book says "as for" is used when refferring to sth unimportant. But it's not always the case.
And some people says they feel awkward to say "as to sth" probably because it's not as common as "as for".

So, dose it mean if I use "as to" I don't sound that natural?

Is there any better explanation for this?

Annvan · Accepted Answer

From the New Oxford American Dictionary:

as for = with regard to, e.g. "... as for you, you'd better be quick."

as to = with respect to; concerning, e.g. "... decisions as to which patients receive treatment."

Cool Breeze · Answer

Unabridged Webster's sees no real difference:
as for or to, with respect to; in reference to: As for staying away, I wouldn't think of it.

And:
AS TO sometimes occurs at the beginning of a sentence, where it introduces an element that would otherwise have less emphasis: As to his salary, that too will be reviewed.
CB

Honamin · Answer

That's interesting...

Thank you!

Peaceblinkfriend · Answer

Cool BreezeAS TO sometimes occurs at the beginning of a sentence, where it introduces an element that would otherwise have less emphasis: As to his salary, that too will be reviewed.

Cool Breeze. Does that mean 'as to' places a bit of emphasis on his salary being reviewed?

Thanks

PBF

Anonymous · Answer

as to:

With reference or regardto.As to your earlier question, I don't think I know the answer.
according to; in a manner conforming or corresponding to; in proportion.Sort them as to size and color.

Source: Wiktionary

Ike57 · Answer

Speakers seem to prefer ”as to” when referring to things already discussed or mentioned by the hearer. Other than that… ?

as for and as to

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