The Vietnamese word "cháy sém" refers to something being slightly burned or singed, typically as a result of being exposed to heat or flames. It describes a situation where the surface of an object gets a little charred or damaged but is not completely destroyed.
In more advanced contexts, "cháy sém" can be used metaphorically to describe situations where something has been slightly harmed or damaged, but not completely ruined.
While primarily referring to something being singed, "cháy sém" can sometimes convey a sense of being damaged or compromised but still salvageable.
In summary, "cháy sém" is a useful term for describing slight burning or scorching.