Definition

1. Adjective (idiomatic, colloquial):
   • Crestfallen, deflated, with one's tail between one's legs: Used to describe someone who has lost their arrogance, confidence, or bluster, typically due to fear, failure, or being confronted, and who subsequently becomes subdued, timid, or retreats.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Thằng hay bắt nạt ấy bị thầy giáo mắng, co vòi ngay. (That bully got scolded by the teacher and immediately became crestfallen.)
  • Nó nói chuyện ngông cuồng, nhưng gặp đối thủ mạnh thì co vòi lại. (He talked arrogantly, but when he met a strong opponent, he deflated and retreated.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often implies a sudden and visible loss of nerve or bravado. It is frequently used in narratives to describe a quick shift from a boastful or aggressive attitude to a cowardly or submissive one.

Variants and Related Words

• Co lại (v): to shrink back, to recoil. This is the literal action implied in "co vòi," where "vòi" (trunk/proboscis) suggests something that was extended (like arrogance) being pulled back in.
• Chùn bước (v): to hesitate, to flinch. Describes losing one's resolve.

Synonyms

• Crestfallen: Sad and disappointed.
• Deflated: Having lost confidence or optimism.
• Cowed: Frightened into submission.
• With one's tail between one's legs: In a state of humiliation or defeat.

Related Idioms

• Xì hơi: Literally "to deflate (like a tire)"; figuratively to lose energy, confidence, or momentum, similar to "co vòi" but less focused on cowardly retreat.
• Cụp đuôi: Literally "to tuck one's tail"; has a very similar meaning to "co vòi," implying becoming scared and submissive.

1. Crest-fallen, with one's tail between one's legs