Meaning and Usage
The adjective 柔软 (róuruǎn) describes something that is soft, flexible, or supple. It is often used to describe physical textures like fabric, food, or materials that are pleasant to touch. It can also metaphorically describe a person's character as gentle or adaptable.
Common Collocations
- 柔软的布料: soft fabric, used when talking about textiles.
- 性格柔软: gentle personality, describing someone's temperament.
- 变得柔软: become soft, often used with food or materials after heating or treatment.
Usage Notes
柔软 is a neutral and common adjective. It contrasts with 硬 (yìng, hard) and is often paired with materials or abstract qualities like personality. Avoid confusing it with 软 (ruǎn) alone, which can be more general; 柔软 emphasizes softness with a sense of suppleness or flexibility.
Register and Tone
This word is standard and appropriate in both spoken and written Mandarin, suitable for everyday conversation and formal contexts alike.