old variant of 辣

JLPT N5 14 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The character (là) primarily describes a spicy or hot taste, commonly used when talking about food. It conveys a strong, pungent flavor that causes a burning sensation. Beyond taste, can also describe something intense or sharp in a figurative sense, such as a spicy plot or a harsh comment.

Common Collocations

  • 辣椒 (làjiāo): chili pepper, the most common source of spiciness.
  • (hěn là): very spicy, a frequent phrase when describing food.
  • (làwèi): spicy flavor, used in culinary contexts.

Usage Notes

When using to describe food, it often appears before 食物 (food) or (dish). It can also be used metaphorically to describe something emotionally or visually intense. Avoid confusing with (harsh or ruthless), which uses in a figurative sense but is a fixed expression.

Register and Tone

is neutral and widely used in everyday conversation about food and sensations. It is informal but appropriate in most contexts.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse with (old variant 辢), which is rarely used today. Focus on for all modern uses related to spiciness and intensity.

Example Sentences

This dish is very spicy, are you sure you want to eat it?

He likes to eat spicy food, especially chili peppers.

The plot of this movie is intense and thrilling.