bitter

HSK 4 8
Stroke order animation for 苦

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Meaning and Usage

The character (kǔ) primarily means "bitter" in taste, but it also extends metaphorically to describe suffering, hardship, or distress. It is commonly used both in literal contexts (like describing flavors) and figurative contexts (such as life difficulties).

Common Collocations

  • (kǔwèi): bitter taste, used when talking about food or drink.
  • (kǔnàn): hardship or suffering, often used in stories or descriptions of difficult experiences.
  • (kǔguā): bitter melon, a common vegetable known for its bitter taste and health benefits.

Usage Notes

When used to describe taste, usually refers to a sharp, unpleasant bitterness. In figurative speech, conveys emotional or physical suffering. It often appears in compound words to specify the type of hardship or bitterness. Avoid confusing with (xīn), which means "spicy" or "pungent".

Tone and Register

The word is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is a common character in everyday language, literature, and media.

예문

这杯咖啡太苦了,我喜欢加点糖。

Zhè bēi kāfēi tài kǔ le, wǒ xǐhuān jiā diǎn táng.

This cup of coffee is too bitter; I like to add some sugar.

他经历了很多苦难,但从未放弃。

Tā jīnglì le hěn duō kǔnàn, dàn cóngwèi fàngqì.

He has gone through many hardships but never gave up.

苦瓜虽然苦,但对身体很有益处。

Kǔguā suīrán kǔ, dàn duì shēntǐ hěn yǒuyìchù.

Bitter melon is bitter, but it is very beneficial for health.