享受 (xiǎng shòu) is a verb meaning 'to enjoy' or 'to partake of' something pleasurable, beneficial, or relaxing. It combines two characters: 享 (xiǎng), meaning 'to enjoy' or 'to receive with gratitude', and 受 (shòu), meaning 'to receive' or 'to undergo'. Together, they emphasize actively receiving and appreciating something positive—whether it’s a sensory experience (like food or music), a privilege (like healthcare or education), or a state of well-being (like peace or comfort). Unlike the more casual 享 (xiǎng) alone, 享受 carries a slightly formal or appreciative tone and often implies conscious savoring.

This word is commonly used in contexts involving quality of life, leisure, rights, and personal fulfillment. You’ll hear it in phrases like 享受生活 (enjoy life), 享受假期 (enjoy one’s vacation), or 享受权利 (enjoy one’s rights). It can also appear in passive constructions (e.g., 被享受) though this is rare and usually reserved for formal or legal texts. As a transitive verb, it always takes an object — you cannot say 'I enjoy' without specifying what is being enjoyed.