Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To eat a more substantial or heartier meal than usual: The phrase describes consuming a meal that is richer, larger, or more fulfilling than one's typical daily fare, often to mark a special occasion, improve one's health, or compensate for previous poor eating.
   • To eat fresh/raw (literal): In a direct, less common sense, it can mean to eat something fresh, uncooked, or in its raw state.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Mẹ bảo con ốm dậy nên phải ăn tươi một bữa cho lại sức. (Mother said that after being sick, one should eat a hearty meal to regain strength.)
  • Cuối tuần, cả nhà cùng ăn tươi với món bò steak. (On the weekend, the whole family ate a more substantial meal together with steak.)
  • Một số món Nhật như sashimi cần phải ăn tươi. (Some Japanese dishes like sashimi need to be eaten fresh/raw.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often implies a deliberate upgrade in the quality or quantity of food for a specific purpose, such as celebration, recovery, or simply treating oneself. It contrasts with the routine of everyday, simpler meals.

Variants and Related Words

• Ăn uống (v): to eat and drink, referring to the general act of consuming food.
• Ăn no (v): to eat until full.
• Ăn kiêng (v): to diet, to eat restrictively.

Synonyms

• To feast: to eat a large and special meal.
• To have a hearty meal: to eat a satisfying and nourishing meal.
• To eat well: to eat good, substantial food.

Related Idioms

• Ăn tươi nuốt sống: (to eat fresh and swallow alive) – An idiom meaning to exploit, bully, or treat someone with extreme harshness and without mercy.
  • Tên chủ nợ đó ăn tươi nuốt sống những người thiếu nợ. (That creditor mercilessly exploits the debtors.)