Definition

Adjective: - Taciturn, of few words: Describes a person who is habitually reserved, uncommunicative, and speaks very little. It often carries a nuance of being sullen, gloomy, or morose, not just quietly thoughtful.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Anh ta là người bì sì, cả ngày chẳng nói nửa lời. (He is a taciturn person, not saying a word all day.)
  • Tính tình bì sì khiến anh ấy khó kết bạn. (His morose and uncommunicative nature makes it hard for him to make friends.)
  • Đừng có bì sì thế, mở lời ra nói chuyện với mọi người đi. (Don't be so sullen and silent, open up and talk to people.)

Advanced Usage Notes

• The word "bì sì" is primarily used in spoken Vietnamese and carries a slightly negative or critical connotation. It describes not just quietness, but a kind of withdrawn, unresponsive, or gloomy silence. It is stronger and more pejorative than neutral words like (introverted/calm) or (quiet).
• It is often used to express frustration or criticism towards someone who refuses to engage in conversation.

Variants and Related Words

• Lầm lì (adj): Taciturn, sullen, grim. This is a very close synonym, also implying a gloomy, uncommunicative demeanor.
• Ít nói (adj): Quiet, of few words. This is a more neutral term without the negative connotation of gloominess.
• Trầm mặc (adj): Reticent, quiet and thoughtful. This often has a more positive or neutral, thoughtful connotation.

Synonyms

• Taciturn: Reserved in speech.
• Uncommunicative: Unwilling to talk or impart information.
• Morose: Sullen and ill-tempered.
• Sullen: Bad-tempered and sulky; gloomy.

Related Idioms or Phrases

• While "bì sì" itself is not typically part of a fixed idiom, its meaning is central to describing a character trait. A common descriptive phrase is:
  • Mặt mày bì sì: To have a sullen/sulky face.

    • Sao cứ mặt mày bì sì thế? Có chuyện gì à? (Why do you have such a sullen face? Is something wrong?)

adj

1. Taciturn, of few words