Meaning and Usage
The word 酢 (す) means "vinegar" in Japanese. It is a common ingredient in Japanese cooking, especially in dishes that require a sour or tangy flavor. 酢 is often used in sushi rice, pickles, and various dressings.
Common Collocations
- 酢を加える (すをくわえる): to add vinegar
- 酢の物 (すのもの): vinegared dishes, a traditional Japanese side dish
- 酢を使う (すをつかう): to use vinegar
These phrases are frequently used in cooking contexts.
Register and Nuance
酢 is a neutral noun and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. It is a staple word in culinary vocabulary.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 酢 (vinegar) with 酸 (さん), which means "acid" or "sourness". Remember that 酢 specifically refers to vinegar as a food ingredient.