受

• Pinyin: shòu
• Hanzi breakdown: 受 = 爫 (hand from above) + 冖 (cover) + 又 (hand), depicting something being passed between hands

Meaning

To receive; to suffer; to bear. Indicates being on the receiving end of an action, whether positive or negative.

A versatile verb used in many compounds: 受到 (to receive), 受欢迎 (to be popular), 受不了 (cannot stand). Can express both positive reception (受到表扬, receive praise) and negative experience (受苦, suffer). Very productive in word formation.

Examples

1. 这部电影受到了观众的喜爱。 This film is loved by audiences.
2. 他受不了这里的天气。 He cannot stand the weather here.
3. 我们受到了热情的欢迎。 We received a warm welcome.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday, formal

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这个品牌很受年轻人欢迎。(This brand is very popular among young people.)
• 她受到了老师的表扬。(She received praise from the teacher.)

Don't Say

• 我受了一个礼物。(Don't use 受 for receiving gifts — use 收到 instead. 受 emphasises enduring or being subjected to something, not simply getting an item.)

Origin & History

An ancient character depicting a hand receiving something from above. The original meaning of receiving has extended to include enduring or suffering.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal