Definition

Verb: To be half-convinced and half-doubtful; to be in a state of uncertainty, not fully believing something but also not completely dismissing it.

Usage

This verb describes a psychological state of indecision regarding the truth or reliability of information, a person, or a situation. It implies a conflict between belief and skepticism.

Examples: * Anh ta lúc nào cũng bán tín bán nghi. (He is always doubtful / in two minds.) * Tôi vẫn bán tín bán nghi về tính xác thực của câu chuyện đó. (I am still half-convinced, half-doubtful about the authenticity of that story.) * Đừng bán tín bán nghi nữa, hãy đưa ra quyết định đi. (Stop being so indecisive; make a decision.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often describes a prolonged or habitual state of hesitation.
• It can be used to critique someone's lack of decisiveness or trust.

Variants and Related Words

• Hoài nghi (verb): To doubt, to suspect. (This is stronger and leans more towards disbelief than indecision.)
• Nghi ngờ (verb): To doubt, to be suspicious.
• Do dự (verb): To hesitate, to waver. (Focuses more on indecision in action rather than in belief.)
• Lưỡng lự (verb): To hesitate, to be irresolute.

Synonyms

• To be in two minds.
• To be skeptical but not entirely dismissive.
• To be undecided.
• To be of two minds.

Related Idioms

• Nửa tin nửa ngờ: This is a direct synonym and has the same meaning (half-believing, half-doubting). It is often used interchangeably with "bán tín bán nghi."
  • Cô ấy nghe tin mà nửa tin nửa ngờ. (She heard the news but was half-convinced, half-doubtful.)

verb

1. to remain undecided; to be doubtful