early-ripening rice
Only when written 早稲
Specifically refers to rice that matures earlier than the main harvest. Usually written 早稲.
In this region, cultivation of early-ripening rice is common.
early-ripening fruit or grain
Only when written 早生
General term for any fruit or grain that ripens early. Usually written 早生.
This peach is an early-ripening variety and can be harvested in June.
precocious person; early bloomer
Only when written 早生
Describes a person who matures physically or mentally earlier than peers. Usually written 早生. Antonym: 奥手 (late bloomer).
Antonyms: 奥手
He was an early bloomer and seemed mature even in elementary school.
Standard kanji spelling, especially for early-ripening rice. High news frequency.
Kana spelling used when the kanji distinction is not needed or in casual writing.
Preferred spelling for early-ripening fruit/grain and for a precocious person.
Compound of 早 (early) and 稲 (rice plant) or 生 (growth/life). The spelling 早稲 is specific to rice, while 早生 is used for other crops and the metaphorical sense of early maturity.