chét tay
Definition
- Noun:
- A handful, a small amount that can be held in one hand: "chét tay" refers to a quantity of a loose, often small or granular, substance that can be grasped and held in one closed hand.
- A grip, a handful used for grasping: It can also refer to the act of gripping or the amount used for that grip, especially in the context of handling plants or similar materials.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Mẹ nhặt một chét tay gạo để nấu cháo. (Mother picked up a handful of rice to cook porridge.)
- Anh ấy nắm một chét tay cỏ khô. (He grabbed a handful of dry grass.)
- Chỉ cần một chét tay lá chè là đủ. (Just a handful of tea leaves is enough.)
Advanced Usage
- This word is specific and descriptive, often used in rural, agricultural, or domestic contexts when referring to small, measurable quantities by hand, rather than by precise instruments. It implies an informal unit of measurement.
Variants and Related Words
- Nắm tay (n): A fistful; a quantity held in a clenched fist. This is a more common synonym.
- Vốc tay (n): A scoop with the hand; similar to "chét tay" but can imply a quicker, scooping motion.
- Nhúm (n): A pinch; a very small amount held between the thumb and fingers.
Synonyms
- Nắm (n): A grasp, a handful.
- Một ít (phrase): A little bit, a small amount.
Notes on Usage
- "Chét tay" is not a highly common word in everyday modern Vietnamese and may be considered somewhat regional or literary. The more frequently used terms for a handful are "nắm" or "nắm tay".
- It is primarily used as a noun to describe a quantity. It is not typically used in idioms or as a phrasal verb.