Definition

1. Verb:
   • To lead by the hand: The primary meaning of "dắt tay" is to guide or accompany someone by holding their hand, typically to provide support, guidance, or safety, especially for a child or someone needing assistance.
   • To hold hands while walking: It can also describe the simple, affectionate act of walking while holding another person's hand.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Mẹ dắt tay con qua đường. (The mother leads her child by the hand across the street.)
  • Hai đứa trẻ dắt tay nhau vào lớp. (The two children walk into class holding hands.)
  • Ông nội dắt tay cháu đi dạo trong công viên. (The grandfather takes his grandchild for a walk in the park, holding his hand.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase inherently implies a gentle, protective, or caring connection between the individuals. It is rarely used in contexts of force or pulling aggressively.

Variants and Related Words

• Dắt (v): to lead, to guide (an animal, a vehicle, or a person, not necessarily by the hand).
  • Anh ấy dắt xe máy vào nhà. (He wheels the motorbike into the house.)
• Nắm tay (v): to hold hands (often implying a mutual, stationary, or romantic grasp rather than the act of guiding).
  • Họ ngồi nắm tay nhau. (They sit holding each other's hands.)

Synonyms

• Lead by the hand: The most direct synonym.
• Take someone's hand: A more general phrase for initiating hand-holding.
• Guide by the hand: Emphasizes the aspect of direction and assistance.

Related Idioms

• Dắt mũi: To lead by the nose; to deceive or manipulate someone.
  • Đừng để họ dắt mũi bạn. (Don't let them lead you by the nose.)
• This idiom contrasts with "dắt tay," as it implies control and trickery rather than care and protection.