Definition

Adjective 1. Timid, easily frightened, fearful: Describes a person or animal that is naturally shy, lacking in courage, or easily scared. It implies a tendency to be nervous or apprehensive. 2. Cowering, shrinking back in fear: Describes the physical posture or behavior of someone who is actively recoiling or trying to make themselves small due to fear.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Đứa trẻ cúm núm trong góc phòng. (The child cowered in the corner of the room.)
  • Tính nó rất cúm núm, không dám nói trước đám đông. (Her personality is very timid; she doesn't dare speak in front of a crowd.)
  • Con mèo cúm núm trước con chó lớn. (The cat shrank back in fear from the big dog.)

Advanced Usage

• The word "cúm núm" is often used to describe a visible, physical reaction to fear, such as hunching one's shoulders, lowering the head, or trying to hide. It is more vivid and descriptive than a simple word like "sợ" (afraid).
• It can carry a slightly negative or pitying connotation, suggesting a lack of boldness or resilience.

Variants and Related Words

• Cúm (verb, colloquial): To shrink back, to cower. (Note: This is a shortened, more colloquial form. "Cúm núm" is the standard adjectival form).
  • Nó cúm lại vì sợ. (He cowered because he was afraid.)
• Rúm (verb): To crumple, to shrivel. While not a direct synonym, it shares the imagery of contracting or shrinking, which is central to the meaning of "cúm núm."

Synonyms

• Nhút nhát: Shy, bashful.
• Rụt rè: Timid, hesitant.
• Sợ sệt: Fearful, apprehensive.
• Khép nép: Meek, submissive (often in a respectful or servile context).

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Mặt cúm núm: To have a fearful, cowering expression on one's face.
  • Nghe tiếng quát, nó mặt cúm núm không dám nói gì. (Hearing the yell, he had a cowering expression and didn't dare say anything.)

adjective

1. Timorous; scarful