About
The character 油 is a phono-semantic compound. Its left component, the water radical 氵, classifies it as a liquid substance, while the right component 由 provides the pronunciation. The primary meaning refers to oil, grease, or similar viscous fluids from animal, plant, or petroleum sources, used for cooking, lubrication, or fuel. From the physical property of greasiness, the meaning extends to describe surfaces as slippery or oily, and metaphorically to characterize a person as glib, cunning, or insincere in social interactions.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
妈妈用油炒菜。
汽车需要汽油。
我喜欢吃酱油面。
石油是一种重要资源。
油炸食品不健康。
润滑油减少机器摩擦。
植物油比动物油更健康。
油价上涨影响经济。