Definition

1. Noun:
   • Imp, little devil: A term used to refer to a mischievous, naughty, or unruly child, often in a scolding or mildly insulting context.
   • Brat, rascal: Can denote a child who is being troublesome or overly noisy.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Thằng bé đó đúng là một đứa ôn vật! (That boy is a real little devil!)
  • Đám ôn vật ấy lại làm ồn ngoài sân. (Those brats are making noise in the yard again.)
  • Bà cụ mắng lũ trẻ: "Cút đi, đồ ôn vật!" (The old lady scolded the children: "Get lost, you imps!")

Advanced Usage

• The term ôn vật is inherently derogatory and is used almost exclusively as a noun of direct address or description when reprimanding. It carries a stronger negative connotation than simply "mischievous child."
• It is often used by adults (e.g., parents, elders) toward children who are being particularly disruptive or disobedient.

Variants and Related Words

• Ôn con (n): A very close synonym with the same meaning (imp, brat). This is the variant noted in the Vietnamese-Vietnamese dictionary reference.
  • Nó là một đứa ôn con khó bảo. (He is a disobedient brat.)

Synonyms

• Tinh quái (adj/n): Mischievous, sly (can describe a person or their nature).
• Nghịch ngợm (adj): Naughty, playful (generally less harsh than ôn vật).
• Ranh con (n): Brat, urchin (colloquial, also derogatory).

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning revolves around a child exhibiting bad, disruptive behavior. It is not used for adults in a literal sense, though it could be used metaphorically in rare, exaggerated contexts.
• The term originates from "ôn" (a malevolent spirit or pestilence in folklore) and "vật" (creature), literally meaning a "pestilential creature," which emphasizes its use as a strong insult for behavior.

1. Imp, little devil