吸收 xīshōu to absorb
to absorb; to assimilate; to ingest; to recruit
How to remember 吸收: 吸 inhale + 收 receive = to absorb.
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How it is used
- To absorb / take in - 吸收营养 (xīshōu yíngyǎng) absorb nutrients; 吸收知识 (xīshōu zhīshi) take in knowledge.
- Both literal (a sponge, the body absorbing) and figurative (absorbing ideas, recruiting members: 吸收会员 xīshōu huìyuán).
- Contrast 收集 (shōují, to collect/gather items); 吸收 draws something in and assimilates it.