short-order
/'ʃɔ:t'ɔ:də/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Relating to food prepared quickly upon order: Describes food, typically in a diner or casual restaurant, that is cooked quickly after being ordered, often from a limited menu of simple items.
- Relating to the preparation of such food: Describes the role or environment (e.g., a cook, a kitchen) dedicated to preparing food rapidly to order.
Usage
- The term "short-order" is used attributively, almost always before a noun (e.g., short-order cook, short-order kitchen). It describes a style of service, not the food itself in isolation. You would not typically say "The food was short-order."
Examples
- Adjective:
- He worked as a short-order cook at the local diner for years.
- The restaurant is known for its classic short-order breakfasts.
- She learned the fast-paced skills of short-order cooking.
Advanced Usage
- "short-order" as a conceptual adjective: Can be used metaphorically to describe anything produced or provided very quickly and on demand, though this is less common.
- The consultant was like a short-order analyst, producing reports for clients overnight.
Variants and Related Words
- Short-order cook (n): A cook who specializes in preparing food quickly to order.
- In short order (idiom): This is a related but distinct phrase meaning "quickly" or "without delay."
- The manager resolved the complaint in short order.
Synonyms
- Fast-food: While related, "fast-food" often implies chain restaurants and standardized menus, whereas "short-order" implies individual preparation in a diner-style setting.
- Quick-service: A more formal or business term for food service designed for speed.
Notes on Different Meanings
- The primary and almost exclusive meaning of "short-order" relates to the quick preparation of food in a casual dining context. It is not commonly used in other domains.
Adjective
- of or relating to food that can be prepared quickly
- a short-order cook