Raw: meaning, definitions and examples

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raw

 

[ rɔː ]

Adjective / Noun / Adverb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adjective

in the context of data

In a natural state; not processed or refined.

Synonyms

crude, unprocessed, untreated.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
raw

Used to describe something in its natural, uncooked state. It often refers to food or materials that have not been altered by processing.

  • She prefers to eat raw vegetables.
  • The stone was in its raw form.
unprocessed

Describes food or materials that have not been subjected to any form of industrial processing or transformation, highlighting their natural state.

  • She buys unprocessed grains from the local market.
  • Unprocessed wool is better for making organic products.
untreated

Refers to materials or substances that have not been chemically or physically treated. This is also common in environmental and health contexts.

  • Untreated water can be dangerous to drink.
  • The infection was left untreated for too long.
crude

Often used to describe something in a rough, unrefined state. It can refer to materials, someone's language, or even behavior. Typically, it has a slightly negative connotation.

  • The mechanic worked with crude oil.
  • He made a crude joke at the party, which was not well received.

Examples of usage

  • Raw data needs to be cleaned and organized before analysis.
  • She prefers to work with raw materials to create her art.
  • The raw footage from the camera requires editing before it can be used in the final video.
Context #2 | Noun

in the context of food

Uncooked food, especially vegetables.

Synonyms

fresh, natural, uncooked.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
raw

Use 'raw' when referring to food that has not been cooked or processed. It can refer to meat, vegetables, or other ingredients that are in their natural state. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is in its original or undeveloped form.

  • He always eats raw carrots as a snack.
  • The raw data needs to be analyzed.
fresh

Use 'fresh' when referring to food that is recently harvested, caught, or prepared, and has not been preserved or processed. It emphasizes the quality and taste of the food. It can also describe something new or recently made.

  • The chef uses fresh ingredients in every dish.
  • I bought a loaf of fresh bread this morning.
uncooked

Use 'uncooked' specifically to describe food that has not been subjected to any form of cooking. It focuses solely on the lack of cooking.

  • The recipe calls for uncooked pasta.
  • He hates the taste of uncooked fish.
natural

Use 'natural' when describing food or products that occur in nature and are not altered by humans. It emphasizes the absence of artificial ingredients, chemicals, or processing. It can also refer to behaviors or phenomena that occur without human intervention.

  • She prefers natural yogurt with no added sugar.
  • The park is known for its natural beauty.

Examples of usage

  • I enjoy eating a salad made with fresh raw vegetables.
  • Sushi is a popular dish that often includes raw fish.
  • Raw fruits and vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet.
Context #3 | Adverb

in the context of emotions

In a natural state; not processed or refined.

Synonyms

directly, genuinely, intensely.

Examples of usage

  • He spoke to her raw, without any filters or pretense.
  • She felt the emotions raw and unfiltered after the breakup.
  • The pain of losing a loved one hit her raw and hard.

Translations

Translations of the word "raw" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cru

🇮🇳 कच्चा

🇩🇪 roh

🇮🇩 mentah

🇺🇦 сирий

🇵🇱 surowy

🇯🇵 

🇫🇷 brut

🇪🇸 crudo

🇹🇷 ham

🇰🇷 날것의

🇸🇦 خام

🇨🇿 surový

🇸🇰 surový

🇨🇳 生的

🇸🇮 surov

🇮🇸 hrá

🇰🇿 шикі

🇬🇪 ნედლი

🇦🇿 xam

🇲🇽 crudo

Etymology

The word 'raw' has Old English origins, coming from the word 'hreaw' meaning 'uncooked'. Over time, its usage expanded to refer to things in their natural state or unrefined condition. The concept of 'raw' has gained popularity in various fields such as data analysis, food preparation, and emotional expression, highlighting the importance of authenticity and purity. The word continues to be used widely in modern English to convey the idea of being unprocessed or uncooked.

See also: rawness.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,435, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.