Meaning and Usage
The verb 输 (shū) primarily means "to lose" or "to be defeated" in competitions, games, or conflicts. It is commonly used in sports, exams, debates, and any situation involving winning or losing.
Common Collocations
- 输了比赛 (shū le bǐsài): lost the match
- 输给别人 (shū gěi biérén): lose to others
- 不想输 (bù xiǎng shū): don't want to lose
These phrases emphasize the competitive context where 输 is used.
Usage Notes
输 is often paired with 了 (le) to indicate a completed loss. It can also be used in negative forms to express determination not to lose. The word carries a neutral tone but can imply disappointment or motivation depending on context.
Avoiding Confusion
Don't confuse 输 with 输送 (shūsòng), which means "to transport" or "to deliver." Although they share the same character, 输 alone focuses on losing or defeat.
Summary
Use 输 when talking about losing in contests or challenges. It is a straightforward verb that appears frequently in everyday conversations about competition and results.