Meaning
腐烂 describes the process of organic matter breaking down and decomposing, or the state of being rotten. It commonly refers to food spoilage, decaying plant material, or deteriorating organic substances. The word can be used both as a verb (to rot) and as an adjective (rotten).
Usage
This word is frequently used in everyday contexts when discussing spoiled food, decaying plants, or decomposing organic matter. It carries a negative connotation and is often associated with unpleasant smells and appearance. Native speakers commonly use it when warning about food that has gone bad or describing environmental decay.
Examples
- 01这些水果放太久了，已经开始腐烂了。, .These fruits have been sitting too long and have already started to rot.
- 02秋天落叶腐烂后会变成肥料。.In autumn, fallen leaves decompose and turn into fertilizer.
Characters
Common collocations
- 腐烂变质to rot and spoil
- 开始腐烂to begin to rot
- 防止腐烂to prevent decay
- 腐烂的气味smell of decay
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters independently relate to decay. 腐 contains the meat radical (肉/月) suggesting spoiled flesh, while 烂 originally depicted something damaged by fire (火). Together they form a compound emphasizing thorough decomposition.