Definition

1. Verb (rare, literary):
   • To change one's countenance / facial expression: To undergo a visible alteration in one's face or appearance, typically due to a strong emotion, surprise, or significant event. It implies a transformation in one's look or demeanor.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Nghe tin ấy, sắc mặt ông ấy bỗng động dung. (Hearing that news, his countenance suddenly changed.)
  • Trước lời cáo buộc, bà ta không hề động dung. (Faced with the accusation, she did not change her expression at all.)

Advanced Usage

• This term is primarily found in classical or formal literary contexts and is seldom used in modern everyday conversation. It often describes a controlled or notable lack of reaction, or a significant shift in composure.

Variants and Related Words

• Thay đổi sắc mặt (v): to change one's facial expression (more common modern equivalent).
  • Anh ấy thay đổi sắc mặt khi nhận được tin nhắn. (He changed his expression when he received the message.)

Synonyms

• To change countenance: To show a different facial expression.
• To alter one's demeanor: To change one's outward behavior or appearance.

Related Idioms

• Không động dung: To remain impassive, to not bat an eyelid.
  • Dù bị chỉ trích nặng nề, ông chủ tịch vẫn ngồi im không động dung. (Even though he was heavily criticized, the chairman sat still without changing his expression.)