Definition

1. Imperative Verb Phrase (Slang, Vulgar):
   • Shut up: A rude and forceful command to stop someone from speaking immediately.
   • Hold your tongue: A direct, often angry, instruction to cease talking or expressing an opinion.

Usage Examples

• Imperative:
  • Câm mồm lại! (Shut up!)
  • Nó bảo tôi: "Câm mồm đi!". (He told me: "Shut up!").
  • Các em câm mồm và nghe cô giảng bài. (You all shut up and listen to the teacher's lesson.)

Advanced Usage

• This phrase is considered highly impolite and confrontational. It is typically used in moments of extreme anger, frustration, or between people in a very informal, often hostile, context. Its use shows a significant lack of respect for the listener.

Variants and Related Words

• Im đi (v): A slightly less vulgar but still very rude command meaning "Be quiet" or "Shut up."
• Ngậm miệng lại (v): A direct, harsh command meaning "Close your mouth."
• Câm miệng (v): A synonymous, equally vulgar variant of "câm mồm."

Synonyms

• Be quiet (less rude)
• Shut your mouth (vulgar)
• Hold your tongue (idiomatic)

Important Note on Register

• "Câm mồm" is a vulgar slang term. It should be avoided in polite conversation, formal settings, and with people you do not know well or who are in a position of authority. Using it can cause serious offense and escalate conflict.

1. Shut up, hold one's tongue
2. Hold your tongue!; shut up!