Meaning and Usage
The character 熟 (shú/shóu) primarily means "ripe," "cooked," or "familiar/experienced." It is commonly used to describe food that is fully cooked or fruit that is ripe. It also describes a person's familiarity or skill with a task.
Common Collocations
- 熟悉 (shúxī): to be familiar with something, often used for skills or knowledge.
- 熟练 (shúliàn): skilled or proficient.
- 熟食 (shúshí): cooked food.
Usage Notes
When used with food, 熟 emphasizes that the item is ready to eat, fully cooked or ripe. When describing people or skills, it conveys experience and proficiency. 熟 is often contrasted with 生 (shēng), meaning raw or uncooked.
Common Confusions
熟 can be pronounced shú or shóu, but the meaning remains consistent. Avoid confusing 熟 with 生 when talking about food readiness or skill level, as they represent opposite states.