Understanding "苦涩" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 苦涩
• Pinyin: kǔ sè
• Literal Meaning: "Bitter and astringent" (苦 "bitter" + 涩 "astringent")
• Primary Meaning: Describes a taste that is bitter and harsh, or metaphorically, a feeling of emotional pain, hardship, or sorrow.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"苦涩" is often used in two main contexts:
1. Literal: Describing a taste that is unpleasantly bitter or astringent, like unripe fruit or strong medicine.
2. Metaphorical: Expressing emotional hardship, such as sadness, regret, or the bitter struggles of life.

The word carries a slightly poetic or reflective tone, often used in writing or speech to convey deep, lingering emotions.

Character Breakdown

• 苦 (kǔ): Means "bitter," referring to taste or hardship.
• 涩 (sè): Means "astringent" (a dry, puckering taste) or "unsmooth," often describing textures or emotions.
  Together, they intensify the sense of bitterness, whether literal or emotional.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 这药的味道非常苦涩。
   Pinyin: Zhè yào de wèidào fēicháng kǔsè.
   English: This medicine tastes very bitter and astringent.

2. Chinese: 他露出了一个苦涩的微笑。
   Pinyin: Tā lòuchūle yīgè kǔsè de wēixiào.
   English: He gave a bitter (sorrowful) smile.

3. Chinese: 生活的苦涩让他变得更加坚强。
   Pinyin: Shēnghuó de kǔsè ràng tā biàn dé gèng jiā jiānqiáng.
   English: The bitterness of life made him stronger.

Cultural Notes

In Chinese culture, "苦涩" is often associated with resilience. The idea of enduring bitterness (苦) is tied to the Confucian value of perseverance through hardship. Traditional Chinese medicine also embraces bitter flavors (苦味) as healing, symbolizing the belief that suffering can lead to growth.

Conclusion

"苦涩" (kǔ sè) is a versatile word describing both physical bitterness and emotional sorrow. Remember: 苦 is "bitter," and 涩 adds a layer of harshness or astringency. Use it to describe tough experiences or strong flavors!