bặm

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The Vietnamese word "bặm" is a verb that generally means "to bite." In particular contexts, it describes the action of biting one's lips, which can be a way of holding back emotions, like sadness or tears.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "bặm" when talking about someone trying to control their feelings or when describing the action of biting your own lips in a moment of tension or anxiety.
• It’s often used in phrases that convey emotional restraint.

Example:

• Bặm miệng không khóc: This phrase means "to bite one's lips and hold back one's tears." It describes the act of suppressing emotions, especially in a sad or difficult situation.

Advanced Usage:

• "Bặm" can also be used metaphorically in literature or poetry to describe someone who is trying to be strong in the face of adversity. For example, a character in a story might "bặm miệng" to show their determination not to cry.

Word Variants:

While "bặm" specifically refers to biting, you might encounter related words that describe different types of biting or chewing: - Cắn: to bite (with the teeth, often more aggressively). - Nhai: to chew (usually more about grinding food).

Different Meanings:

"Bặm" mainly focuses on the action of biting lips, but it can also imply a sense of holding back emotions. It does not usually have other meanings outside this context.

Synonyms:

• Cắn: This can be a synonym in some contexts, but "cắn" is more general and can refer to biting in a physical sense rather than the emotional context of "bặm."
• Ngậm: This means "to hold in the mouth," but can also imply restraint in a broader sense.

Academic

verb

1. to bite (one's lips)
   • bặm miệng không khóc
     to bite one's lips and hold back one's tears