收

You use 收 when something is coming your way. If a friend gives you a red envelope, you 收. If you are cleaning the living room, you 收 the clutter. It often pairs with other words to be specific. For example, 收到 means you actually got the message or package. It is short, punchy, and very active.

Use it when you receive a delivery. Use it when you are asking for the bill at a restaurant. It is perfect for texting when you want to say 'Got it!' or 'I received it.' You will also hear it at the end of a movie set when the director yells 'Wrap it up!'—they are literally 'collecting' the work for the day.

Don't use 收 if you are the one giving the item. That is 给. Also, avoid using it for 'collecting' hobbies like stamps or coins in a formal way; use 收藏 for that. If you just say 收 alone to a person, it might sound like you are telling them to 'shut up' or 'withdraw,' which can be a bit rude if the tone is wrong.

In Chinese culture, the harvest is the most important time of year. 收 represents the reward for hard work. There is also a polite dance around 'receiving.' Often, people will say 'Don't be so polite' while you are trying to 收 a gift. It is a word tied to prosperity and the physical act of holding onto your gains.

You will see 快收下 when someone is insisting you take a gift. 没收到 is the dreaded 'I didn't get your text' excuse. 收工 is the best phrase in the world—it means you are finished with work for the day and can finally go home!