Definition

Verb: - To make approaches to (someone), especially for romantic or sexual purposes: This is the primary meaning, referring to the act of trying to initiate a romantic or sexual encounter, often through suggestive conversation or propositions. It typically implies a direct, sometimes persistent, and often unwelcome advance. - To coax or wheedle (someone) in order to gain something: A secondary meaning where "gạ gẫm" describes using smooth or cunning talk to persuade someone, often for personal gain or to exploit a situation.

Usage Examples

• Verb (romantic/sexual advance):

  • Hắn ta luôn tìm cách gạ gẫm các cô gái trẻ ở quán bar. (He is always trying to make passes at young girls at the bar.)
  • Cô ấy cảm thấy khó chịu vì bị người lạ gạ gẫm. (She felt uncomfortable because a stranger was making advances toward her.)

• Verb (to coax/wheedle):

  • Đứa trẻ gạ gẫm mẹ nó mua cho đồ chơi mới. (The child wheedled his mother into buying him a new toy.)
  • Nó gạ gẫm bà cụ để xin tiền. (He coaxed the old lady to ask for money.)

Advanced Usage

• The word often carries a negative or disapproving connotation, suggesting the advances are inappropriate, manipulative, or opportunistic.
• It is more commonly used in informal or colloquial contexts rather than formal writing.

Variants and Related Words

• Gạ (verb): A shorter, more blunt form meaning to proposition or solicit, often used in contexts like "gạ mua" (to solicit a purchase) or "gạ tình" (to make a sexual proposition).
• Tán tỉnh (verb): To flirt or court. This is a more general and often lighter term for romantic pursuit, usually without the negative implication of "gạ gẫm."

Synonyms

• To make a pass at: To make a direct, often bold, romantic or sexual advance.
• To hit on (someone): (Informal) To flirt with or make advances toward someone.
• To proposition: To suggest a sexual encounter directly.
• To coax: To persuade someone gently or by flattery.
• To wheedle: To use flattery or coaxing to obtain something.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Gạ gẫm đổi tình lấy thân: A phrase meaning to proposition someone, explicitly suggesting exchanging affection or favor for physical intimacy. It highlights the exploitative nature of the advance.
  • Hắn định gạ gẫm đổi tình lấy thân cô ta. (He intended to proposition her, suggesting an exchange of favor for intimacy.)

verb

1. to make approaches to (a woman); to make a pass at