Definition

1. Phrase (Rhetorical Question Marker):
   • Not easy to; Not likely to; Not a given that. Used to express strong doubt or skepticism about the likelihood or ease of an event or action happening. It implies that the action is difficult, uncertain, or requires significant effort or special conditions.
   • It's not that simple; It's not so easy. Used to counter an assumption that something is straightforward or easily achievable, emphasizing hidden complexities or challenges.

Usage Examples

• Phrase:
  • Dễ gì ông ta đồng ý. (It's not likely that he'll agree. / It's not a given that he'll agree.)
  • Dễ gì kiếm được việc làm lương cao. (It's not easy to find a high-paying job.)
  • "Anh ấy sẽ đến sớm thôi." – "Dễ gì!" ("He'll be here soon." – "Not likely!")

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is often used in a standalone, exclamatory form "Dễ gì!" to strongly disagree with a previous optimistic statement, similar to "Not a chance!" or "Easier said than done!" in English.
  • "Chúng ta có thể thắng đội đó." – "Dễ gì!" ("We can beat that team." – "Not likely!")

Variants and Related Words

• Không dễ gì: A more explicit negative form with the same meaning (not easy to).
  • Không dễ gì thay đổi thói quen cũ. (It's not easy to change old habits.)

Synonyms

• Not likely; Not easy; Hardly; It's not a given; It's not that simple; Far from certain.

Related Idioms

• Dễ gì... được: A common sentence pattern meaning "It's not easy to get/achieve..."
  • Dễ gì được lòng cô ấy. (It's not easy to win her favor.)
• Đâu dễ gì: A variant with "đâu" adding extra emphasis to the doubt.
  • Đâu dễ gì một sớm một chiều. (It's not something that can be done overnight. [Lit: It's not easy in one morning and one afternoon.])

1. Not easy, not sure
   • Dễ gì ông ta đồng ý
     It is not sura that he's going to agree