(shí) - food & to eat

Tone 2

shí | 9 strokes | radical:

· shí

food;

to eat;

meal;

edible substance;

to feed;

provisions

foodto eatmeal

Usage highlights

foodto eatcanteeneating utensilsappetitedining table

Synonyms

  • to eat
  • meal
  • cooked rice; meal

Antonyms

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • I eat breakfast every morning (吃早餐).
  • Chinese cuisine is delicious (中国食物).
  • This restaurant serves vegetarian food (素食).
  • Food safety is important (食品安全).

Collocations

  • food(食物)
  • to eat(进食)
  • canteen(食堂)
  • eating utensils(食具)
  • appetite(食欲)
  • dining table(餐桌)

Idioms

  • To waste food and money(食玉炊桂)
  • To eat without tasting(食不知味)
  • To bite the hand that feeds you(食碗面反碗底)
  • To live off one's past gains(食老本)
  • Food is the heaven for the people(民以食为天)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • One of the most fundamental characters in Chinese culture, reflecting the importance of food and eating.
  • Historically associated with sustenance, nourishment, and basic human needs.
  • In traditional Chinese medicine, diet is considered crucial for maintaining health and balance.

FAQ