chành

Thân thiện

Đứa trẻ ngạc nhiên, chành miệng ra nhìn.

Definition

1. Verb:
   • To open wide (one's mouth, eyes, etc.): "chành" describes the action of opening something, typically one's mouth or eyes, very widely, often to an exaggerated extent. It implies a sudden or forceful opening.

Usage

• "chành" is primarily used as a transitive verb, often followed by an object like "miệng" (mouth) or "mắt" (eyes).
• It is considered a somewhat rare or literary word in modern Vietnamese and often conveys a vivid, descriptive image.
• It is commonly used in descriptive narratives or to depict expressions of surprise, shock, or yawning.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Đứa bé ngạc nhiên, chành miệng ra nhìn. (The child was surprised, opening his mouth wide to look.)
  • Con mèo chành mắt* nhìn con chuột.* (The cat opened its eyes wide** looking at the mouse.)
  • Anh ta ngáp, chành cái miệng rộng hoác. (He yawned, opening his mouth gapingly wide.)

Advanced Usage

• "chành ra": This is the most common construction, where "ra" (out) emphasizes the outward motion of the opening.
  • Cánh cửa gỗ cũ kĩ chành ra một khe hở. (The old wooden door gaped open a crack.) (Note: This usage extends the meaning metaphorically to objects.)

Variants and Related Words

• Há (verb): To open (one's mouth). This is a more common and neutral synonym.
• Mở to (verb phrase): To open wide. A more standard, descriptive phrase.
• Trợn (verb): To open (eyes) wide, often due to strong emotion like anger or fear. More specific to eyes.

Synonyms

• Há ra: To gape, to open wide.
• Mở rộng: To open widely.

Related Phrases

• Chành miệng: To gape (with one's mouth).
• Chành mắt: To open one's eyes wide.

Học thuật

1. Open wide (one's mouth...)