B2adjective1K

Raw

UK /["/rɔː/"]/US /["/rɔː/"]/

Definition

not cooked

In simple words: Something that is in its natural state, not cooked or processed.

Examples

  • He prefers his sushi with raw fish rather than cooked.
  • The raw emotions on her face were evident during the speech.
  • The artist's raw talent shone through in her first exhibition.
  • The raw data from the experiment needs to be analyzed carefully.
  • He felt raw after the breakup, unable to process his feelings.
  • The raw materials for the construction were delivered yesterday.
  • Her raw honesty in the interview left a strong impression.
  • I prefer my steak cooked, not raw like some people do.

Usage notes

Use 'raw' to describe food that hasn't been cooked. In other contexts, it can refer to data or materials not yet processed. Avoid using in overly formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a 'raw steak' — it's not cooked, just laying there.

Collocations

  • raw data
  • raw material
  • raw vegetables
  • raw emotion
  • raw talent

Synonyms

  • unprocessed
  • natural
  • fresh
  • crude
  • untreated

Antonyms

  • cooked
  • processed
  • refined

Common mistakes

  • Confuse with 'roe' when referring to fish eggs.
  • Use 'raw' instead of 'rough' to describe something unpolished.
  • Mix up 'raw' with 'rare' in meat contexts.