Definition

Verb phrase: - To act with excessive caution or reserve in social interactions, often by paying meticulous attention to small details or formalities to avoid misunderstandings or to maintain a certain distance. It implies being overly careful, sometimes to the point of seeming distant or not fully open.

Usage

This phrase describes a deliberate, cautious behavior in relationships or dealings. It is often used to advise against such behavior among close friends or family, where openness is expected. - It is used as a verb phrase: giữ kẽ. - It often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting the caution is unnecessary or hinders genuine connection.

Usage Examples

• (Between friends, one should not be so overcautious.)
• (He always maintains excessive caution in all business dealings, never getting too close.)
• (Just because she wants to be overly reserved, she declines all dinner invitations from colleagues.)

Advanced Usage / Nuances

• The phrase often implies a strategic social distance. It's not just shyness but a calculated effort to avoid future obligations, conflicts, or misunderstandings by strictly observing formalities.
• It can be used in contexts ranging from personal friendships to formal business or diplomatic relations.

Variants and Related Words

• Giữ ý (Verb phrase): To be considerate, to be mindful of others' feelings. This is similar but generally has a more positive connotation than giữ kẽ.
• Dè dặt (Adjective): Cautious, reserved. Describes a general temperament rather than a specific social strategy.
• Thận trọng (Adjective): Careful, prudent. A neutral or positive term for being careful, not specifically social.

Synonyms

• To be overcautious: (Quá thận trọng)
• To stand on ceremony: (Quá câu nệ hình thức)
• To keep one's distance: (Giữ khoảng cách)

Related Idioms / Expressions

• Khách sáo: (To be ceremonious/formal). This refers to polite, formal behavior that may create distance, similar to giữ kẽ. (Don't stand on ceremony, make yourself at home.)
• Giữ mồm giữ miệng: (To hold one's tongue). This focuses on being cautious in speech, which can be one aspect of giữ kẽ.

1. Show excessive caution (in one's deallings), be overcautious
   • Bè bạn với nhau không nên giữ kẽ như thế
     Between friends one should such excessive caution