chào hỏi
Definition
- Verb:
- To greet / to exchange greetings: The primary meaning of "chào hỏi" is to acknowledge someone's presence with words or gestures, such as saying hello, nodding, or waving. It refers to the basic social act of offering a salutation.
- To make small talk / to pass the time of day: This meaning extends to brief, polite conversation that serves to acknowledge someone socially, often without discussing substantive matters.
Usage Examples
- Verb:
- Mọi người đều chào hỏi nhau khi bước vào phòng. (Everyone greeted each other when entering the room.)
- Họ chỉ chào hỏi xã giao chứ không nói chuyện lâu. (They just exchanged polite greetings and didn't talk for long.)
- Đến nhà ai chơi, trước tiên phải chào hỏi chủ nhà. (When visiting someone's house, you must first greet the host.)
Advanced Usage
- The term implies a standard of polite social behavior. Failing to "chào hỏi" someone can be considered rude or a sign of disrespect.
- It often describes a reciprocal or mutual action between people.
Variants and Related Words
- Chào (v): to say hello/goodbye, to salute. This is the core verb for a single-direction salutation.
- Chào cô! (Hello, teacher!)
- Lời chào (n): a greeting, a salutation.
- Lời chào cao hơn mâm cỗ. (A greeting is more valuable than a feast.) [A proverb about the importance of politeness.]
Synonyms
- Greet: to address with expressions of kind wishes upon meeting or arrival.
- Salute: to make a gesture of respect or recognition.
- Acknowledge: to show that you have seen and recognized someone.
Related Idioms and Expressions
- Chào hỏi xã giao: to exchange formal/courtesy greetings.
- Cuộc gặp chỉ có chào hỏi xã giao. (The meeting involved only formal pleasantries.)
- Miệng chào tay bắt: (lit. mouth greets, hand shakes) To greet someone warmly and cordially.
- Bác ấy luôn miệng chào tay bắt với khách. (He always greets guests with warm words and a handshake.)
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To pass the time of day
