Definition

Adjective: - Affected, overly sweet, or artificially delicate: Describes a voice, tone, or manner of speaking that is intentionally soft, high-pitched, or sweet in a way that seems unnatural, forced, or not genuine. It often implies a lack of sincerity or an attempt to sound cute or gentle.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Cô ấy nói chuyện éo ợt quá, nghe không tự nhiên chút nào. (She speaks in such an affected voice; it doesn't sound natural at all.)
  • Giọng hát éo ợt của diễn viên đó không phù hợp với bài hát. (That actor's overly sweet singing voice is not suitable for the song.)
  • Đừng có éo ợt như thế, hãy nói chuyện bình thường đi. (Don't be so artificially delicate; just speak normally.)

Advanced Usage

• Used to describe behavior: While primarily describing voice, it can extend to describe an overall affected or artificially dainty demeanor.
  • Cử chỉ éo ợt của anh ta khiến mọi người khó chịu. (His affected mannerisms annoyed everyone.)

Variants and Related Words

• Ẻo lả (adj): Similar to , describing an affectedly languid, weak, or overly delicate manner, often in movement or speech.
• Ọt ẹt (adj): Describes a very high-pitched, squeaky, or shrill sound, which can sometimes overlap with the unnatural quality of .

Synonyms

• Giả tạo (adj): Artificial, fake, insincere. (Broader term, not specific to voice.)
• Màu mè (adj): Flowery, ornate, showy. (Often used for language or style, can imply affectation.)
• Điệu đà (adj): Affected, coquettish, putting on airs. (Often related to mannerisms.)

Antonyms

• Tự nhiên (adj): Natural, unaffected.
• Chân thật (adj): Sincere, genuine.
• Mộc mạc (adj): Simple, plain, unadorned.

Notes on Usage

• Connotation: The word éo ợt carries a negative connotation. It is used critically to point out and often mock someone's unnatural way of speaking or behaving.
• Common Context: It is frequently used in spoken Vietnamese to comment on someone's voice in conversations, performances, or media.

1. In an affected voice (different from one's usual voice)
   • Ăn nói ẽo ọt
     To speak in an affected voice