Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Recklessly, wildly, without regard for consequences: "bạt tê" describes an action done in an extremely reckless, unrestrained, or frantic manner, often with a vulgar or very informal tone.

Usage

• "Bạt tê" is a highly informal and somewhat vulgar adverb. It is used to intensify the meaning of a verb, emphasizing that an action is performed with extreme recklessness, intensity, or lack of control. It is nearly identical in meaning and register to "bạt mạng."

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • Nó uống rượu bạt tê. (He drinks alcohol wildly/recklessly.)
  • Cả đội chạy bạt tê về phía đích. (The whole team ran frantically/wildly toward the finish line.)
  • Họ làm việc bạt tê để kịp deadline. (They work like crazy/frantically to meet the deadline.)

Advanced Usage

• The word is primarily used in spoken Vietnamese and very informal contexts. Its usage conveys a strong, often negative, judgment on the manner of the action, implying it is excessive and uncontrolled.

Variants and Related Words

• Bạt mạng (adv.): Recklessly, wildly. This is the more standard (though still informal) form with the same core meaning as "bạt tê."
• Liều mạng (adv./verb): To act recklessly, to risk one's life. Focuses more on the aspect of risking danger.
• Điên cuồng (adj./adv.): Frantic, frenzied. A stronger literary synonym, but not vulgar.

Synonyms

• Bạt mạng: Recklessly, wildly (direct synonym).
• Hăng máu: Recklessly, with heated blood (informal).
• Cuồng nhiệt: Ardently, fervently (less vulgar, can be positive).

Related Idioms

• While "bạt tê" itself is not typically part of a fixed idiom, it is used in the same way as "bạt mạng" in expressions like:
  • Làm bạt tê / Làm bạt mạng: To work or do something recklessly hard.
  • Chơi bạt tê / Chơi bạt mạng: To play or party wildly/recklessly.

1. như bạt mạng