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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'bitter' with 苦 (kǔ)

    Degree & Intensity
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    苦 + 的 + Noun

    Explanation

    The adjective 苦 (kǔ) means bitter in taste. It is one of the five basic flavors in Chinese cuisine and culture, alongside 甜 (sweet), 咸 (salty), 酸 (sour), and 辣 (spicy). It can also be used figuratively to mean hardship or suffering.

    Examples

    • 这杯咖啡太苦了，能加点糖吗？

      Zhè bēi kāfēi tài kǔle, néng jiā diǎn táng ma?

      This coffee is too bitter; can I add some sugar?

    • 苦瓜虽然味道苦，但对身体很好。

      Kǔguā suīrán wèidào kǔ, dàn duì shēntǐ hěn hǎo.

      Although bitter melon tastes bitter, it's very good for your health.

    • 这种中药有点苦，不过效果不错。

      Zhè zhǒng zhōngyào yǒudiǎn kǔ, búguò xiàoguǒ búcuò.

      This Chinese medicine is a bit bitter, but it works quite well.

    Often Confused With

    Expressing 'bitter' with 苦 (kǔ) | Chinese Grammar