coi hát
Definition
- Verb phrase:
- To watch a theatrical performance, to attend a play/show: The act of being present as an audience member to watch a staged performance, such as a play, opera, or traditional theatrical show (e.g., tuồng, chèo, cải lương).
Usage Examples
- Verb phrase:
- Tối nay gia đình tôi sẽ đi coi hát. (Tonight my family will go to watch a play.)
- Ngày xưa, coi hát là một trong những thú vui giải trí chính. (In the past, attending theatrical performances was one of the main forms of entertainment.)
- Cụ ấy rất thích coi hát tuồng ở nhà hát lớn. (He really likes to watch tuồng opera at the grand theater.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase "coi hát" traditionally implies attending a live, staged performance in a theater or similar venue. It is less commonly used for watching recorded performances like movies or TV shows, for which "xem phim" (to watch a movie) is used.
- It can be used in a broader, sometimes figurative sense to describe observing a situation unfold, often one involving drama or conflict.
- Anh ta chỉ ngồi đó coi hát mà không can thiệp gì. (He just sat there watching the drama unfold without intervening.)
Variants and Related Words
- Đi xem hát / Đi coi hát: To go to watch a play/show. (A more complete phrase emphasizing the action of going.)
- Xem kịch: To watch a (modern) drama/play. (A more modern synonym.)
- Thưởng thức nghệ thuật sân khấu: To enjoy stage art. (A more formal equivalent.)
Synonyms
- Xem biểu diễn: To watch a performance (can be broader, including music, dance).
- Tham dự buổi diễn: To attend a performance/show.
Related Phrases (Verb + Object Combinations)
- Coi hát bội / hát tuồng: To watch classical Vietnamese opera.
- Coi hát cải lương: To watch reformed Vietnamese theater/opera.
- Coi hát chèo: To watch traditional Vietnamese folk opera.
Related Idioms
- Coi hát hay, vỗ tay to: Literally "If the show is good, clap loudly." Figuratively means to give praise or reward where it is deserved.
- Sản phẩm của anh rất tốt, khách hàng sẽ coi hát hay, vỗ tay to thôi. (Your product is very good; customers will show their appreciation.)