Definition

1. Verb:
   • To show off, to display something that is essentially empty, false, or without real substance: The word describes the act of putting on a display, boasting, or making a show of something (like talent, strength, or status) that is either non-existent, exaggerated, or hollow at its core. The focus is on creating a deceptive appearance of value or capability.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Anh ta chẳng có tài cán gì, chỉ thích hư trương. (He has no real talent, he just likes to show off.)
  • Công ty đó đang hư trương thanh thế để thu hút nhà đầu tư. (That company is displaying/showing off unsubstantial strength to attract investors.)
  • Đừng hư trương những thứ mình không có. (Don't show off things you don't possess.)

Advanced Usage

• The term often carries a strong negative connotation, implying criticism, deceit, or foolishness. It is used to describe behavior that is seen as pretentious and aimed at misleading others about one's true nature or abilities.
  • Bản chất của chế độ đó là hư trương và dối trá. (The nature of that regime is ostentation and deceit.)

Variants and Related Words

• Khoe khoang (verb): To boast, to brag. This is a more general synonym for showing off, but does not necessarily imply the thing being shown off is false or empty.
• Phô trương (verb): To flaunt, to parade. This emphasizes overt display, which can be of real or fake things.
• Màu mè (adjective): Flashy, showy. Describes something designed to attract attention, often superficially.
• Hão huyền (adjective): Illusory, vain. Describes something empty or futile, often relating to hopes or boasts.

Synonyms

• To boast (about nothing)
• To put on a false front
• To engage in ostentation

Related Idioms

• "Nói một đường làm một nẻo": To say one thing and do another. This relates to the dishonesty implied by "hư trương."
• "Tốt gỗ hơn tốt nước sơn": The quality of the wood is more important than the quality of the varnish/paint. This idiom contrasts inner substance with outer appearance, criticizing the kind of empty display "hư trương" represents.

1. Show off, display (something essentially empty)
   • Tài thì chẳng có gì lại hay hư trương
     To be in the habit of showing off an inexistent talent
   • Hư trương thanh thế
     To show off unsubstantial strength