Definition

1. Adjective (used in a predicative position):
   • Unruffled, unconcerned, indifferent: A state of remaining calm, composed, and emotionally unaffected, especially in a situation where others are agitated, worried, or excited. It describes a deliberate maintenance of inner peace and a lack of disturbance.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Mọi người xôn xao lo lắng, còn anh ta vẫn bình chân. (There was a general flurry and concern, but he remained unruffled.)
  • Dù có chuyện gì xảy ra, cô ấy luôn giữ được vẻ bình chân. (No matter what happens, she always maintains an unruffled demeanor.)
  • Trước những lời chỉ trích, ông ấy tỏ ra hoàn toàn bình chân. (In the face of criticism, he appeared completely unconcerned.)

Advanced Usage

• "bình chân như vại": (idiomatic simile) To be utterly indifferent; completely unperturbed. "Vại" is a large, sturdy earthenware jar, symbolizing immovability and stability. This phrase intensifies the meaning of "bình chân" to imply a near-total insensitivity or unshakeable calm.
  • Thiên hạ đang bàn tán xôn xao, một mình anh ta bình chân như vại. (Everyone else is gossiping excitedly, while he alone remains as unruffled as a stone jar.)

Variants and Related Words

• Bình tĩnh (adj): calm, composed. This is a more common and general synonym for calmness.
• Thản nhiên (adj): nonchalant, indifferent, showing a lack of interest or concern.
• Điềm nhiên (adj): imperturbable, unflappable, maintaining composure.

Synonyms

• Unruffled: Not disordered or disturbed.
• Unconcerned: Showing a lack of worry or interest.
• Indifferent: Having no particular interest or sympathy.
• Composed: Calm and in control of one's feelings.

Related Idioms

• "Bình chân như vại": As steady/unmoved as a large jar. (See Advanced Usage).
• "Ngồi chơi xơi nước": (lit. to sit, relax, and drink tea) To be at ease and unconcerned, often while others are working hard. This shares the connotation of relaxed indifference.

1. Unruffled, unconcerned, indifferent
   • mọi người xôn xao lo lắng, còn anh ta vẫn bình chân
     there was a general flurry and concern, but he remained unruffled