調理

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: Spelling: 調理. Reading: ちょうり. Core meaning: cooking; food preparation.
• Basic usage: Representative examples: 野菜を調理する前によく洗った / 給食室では大量の食材を安全に調理している.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Preparation versus a dish
  • 調理する focuses on preparing and cooking ingredients so they are safe and ready to eat. 料理 can refer not only to cooking but also to a finished dish or a cuisine.