Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To lie down for a short rest: To recline or rest one's back for a brief period, typically to alleviate fatigue without the intention of a full, long sleep. It implies a temporary pause in activity.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Anh chỉ định ghé lưng nửa tiếng thôi. (He only intends to lie down for a short rest for half an hour.)
  • Tạm ghé lưng cho đỡ mệt, sau đó lại tiếp tục làm việc. (To lie down for a short while to relieve tiredness, then resume work afterwards.)
  • Trên đường đi xa, họ dừng xe để ghé lưng tại một quán nghỉ. (On the long journey, they stopped the car to lie down for a short rest at a roadside stop.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often carries a connotation of modesty and simplicity regarding the act of resting. It suggests making do with a simple, available surface rather than a proper bed.
  • Phòng khách cũng được, tôi chỉ cần ghé lưng một chút là đủ. (The living room is fine; I just need to lie down for a short rest.)

Variants and Related Words

• Ngả lưng (verb phrase): A direct synonym, also meaning to lie down for a short while.
  • Ông già ngả lưng trên chiếc võng. (The old man lay down for a short rest on the hammock.)

Synonyms

• To take a quick lie-down: To rest by lying down briefly.
• To recline briefly: To lean back or lie down for a short time.

Related Idioms

• While "ghé lưng" itself is idiomatic, it is often used in the context of the idiom "ghé lưng qua đêm" (to lie down for the night), emphasizing a temporary, makeshift accommodation.
  • Nhà anh ấy xa quá, tôi phải ghé lưng qua đêm ở đây. (His house is too far; I have to lie down for the night here.)

1. cũng nói ngả lưng lie down for a short while
   • Tạm ghé lưng cho đở mệt sau đó lại tiếp tục làm việc
     To lie down for a short rest and resume work afterwards