鲥 (shí) - Shad — a type of anadromous fish (Tenualosa

鲥Tone 2

shí ｜ 15 strokes ｜ radical:

上姝

鲥 · shí

Shad — a type of anadromous fish (Tenualosa reevesii) known for its seasonal migration and prized as a delicacy in Chinese cuisine.

Shad — a type of anadromous fish (Tenualosa

Usage highlights

Shad fishSteamed shadShad migrationSeasonal shadShad scalesShad roe

Synonyms

  • 时鱼— Seasonal fish (alternative name emphasizing its timely arrival)
  • 三来— Three-comer (regional name referring to its migratory pattern)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The seasonal shad is highly valued (时令鲥鱼).
  • Steamed shad is a classic dish (清蒸鲥鱼).
  • The shad run occurs in spring (鲥鱼汛期).
  • This river is famous for shad (盛产鲥鱼的河流).

Collocations

  • Shad fish(鲥鱼)
  • Steamed shad(清蒸鲥鱼)
  • Shad migration(鲥鱼洄游)
  • Seasonal shad(时令鲥鱼)
  • Shad scales(鲥鱼鳞)
  • Shad roe(鲥鱼子)

Idioms

  • As timely as the shad's arrival(如鲥鱼之应时)
  • Shad scales not to be removed(鲥鱼不去鳞)
  • Cherish the shad, cherish the time(惜鲥惜时)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Historically considered one of the 'Yangtze River Three Delicacies' (长江三鲜) along with swordfish and pufferfish.
  • Symbolizes timeliness and seasonal change due to its predictable migratory patterns.
  • Traditionally cooked with scales intact as they contain rich oils and contribute to flavor.
  • Population has declined significantly due to overfishing and habitat change, making it rare and expensive.

FAQ