肉

Definition

Refers to meat in general. Beef (牛肉 gyuuniku), pork (豚肉 butaniku), and chicken (鶏肉 toriniku) are most common.

Example

Etymology

The term 肉 (niku) originates from the classical Chinese character, which generally refers to meat or flesh. The use of 肉 in Japanese has evolved to include various types of meat, particularly during periods of increased protein consumption in the Edo period.

How & Where It’s Used

肉 (niku) is widely used in both formal and informal settings and can appear in everyday conversations, menus, and culinary descriptions. It is prominent in regional cuisines, especially in areas known for specific meat dishes, like yakiniku.

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