Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Simple and plain: Describes something that is basic, uncomplicated, and lacks ornamentation or sophistication. It often implies a humble, unadorned quality.
   • Rudimentary / Crude: Refers to something that is minimal, not fully developed, or made with very few elements, sometimes suggesting inadequacy.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Căn nhà của bà rất đơn sơ, chỉ có bàn, ghế, và một chiếc giường. (Her house is very simple, with only a table, chairs, and a bed.)
  • Bữa ăn đơn sơ nhưng đầy ắp tình cảm. (The meal was simple but filled with affection.)
  • Phương pháp nghiên cứu này còn quá đơn sơ. (This research method is still too rudimentary.)

Advanced Usage

• The word "đơn sơ" often carries a neutral or positive connotation of humility and essential purity, but in certain contexts, it can have a slightly negative connotation of being too basic or insufficiently developed.
• It is commonly used to describe objects (houses, meals, clothing), lifestyles, or concepts.

Variants and Related Words

• Đơn giản (adj): Simple, uncomplicated. This is a more common and neutral synonym for "simple," without the strong connotation of plainness or crudeness that "đơn sơ" can imply.
• Sơ sài (adj): Sketchy, cursory, perfunctory. This word emphasizes inadequacy and lack of thoroughness more strongly than "đơn sơ."

Synonyms

• Simple: Easily understood or done; plain.
• Plain: Not decorated or elaborate; simple.
• Rudimentary: Involving or limited to basic principles; undeveloped.
• Modest: Unassuming in appearance or size.

Related Idioms

• Đơn sơ giản dị: A common phrase combining "đơn sơ" and "giản dị" (simple, frugal) to emphasize a lifestyle of great simplicity and modesty.
  • Ông ấy sống một cuộc đời đơn sơ giản dị. (He lives a simple and frugal life.)

adj

1. simple