fugu

Everyday

(Japanese) A pufferfish, or a Japanese dish made from it. The fish contains a deadly poison, so only specially trained and licensed chefs may prepare it. tree →

In the lessons

In geography and food lessons about Japan, fugu is a famous, risky delicacy. In science, it shows that some animals make strong toxins to protect themselves: the poison is in parts like the liver and ovaries. Safety: it can kill, so it must only be prepared by experts. Phrases: «fugu chef», «poisonous pufferfish».

Examples

• Fugu is a pufferfish eaten in Japan. tree →
• Only licensed chefs are allowed to prepare fugu. tree →
• Parts of the fugu contain a deadly poison. tree →
• A pufferfish blows itself up like a ball when scared. tree →
• The fugu restaurant had a special licence. tree →
• Eating badly prepared fugu can be fatal. tree →

Note

A Japanese word, not an English one; pronounced «FOO-goo». The poison (tetrodotoxin) has no known antidote; there is no easy cure, which is why the rules are strict.