Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To dismiss tactfully / to give a polite hint to leave: The phrase "đuổi khéo" refers to the act of asking someone to depart or end a visit in an indirect, polite, and face-saving manner, without being blunt or rude. It implies using subtle cues or gentle words.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Khách đã ngồi quá lâu, chủ nhà phải đuổi khéo. (The guest had stayed too long, the host had to tactfully ask them to leave.)
  • Cô ấy đuổi khéo người bán hàng rong bằng cách nói "Cảm ơn, tôi không cần gì đâu". (She politely dismissed the street vendor by saying, "Thank you, I don't need anything.")

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is often used in social contexts where directness is considered impolite. It focuses on the method (khéo - skillful, tactful) of achieving the goal of making someone leave.

Variants and Related Words

• Đuổi (v): to chase, to drive away, to expel. This is the root verb, which is more direct and can be harsh.
  • Người bảo vệ đuổi con chó ra khỏi vườn. (The guard chased the dog out of the garden.)

Synonyms

• To usher out politely: to guide someone out in a courteous way.
• To hint for someone to leave: to suggest indirectly that it is time to go.
• To see someone out tactfully: to accompany someone to the door as a polite way to end their visit.

Related Idioms

• Nói khéo: to speak tactfully or diplomatically. This shares the root "khéo" (skillful/tactful) and is a related communicative strategy.
  • Anh ấy nói khéo để từ chối lời mời. (He spoke tactfully to decline the invitation.)