hừm
Definition
- Interjection:
- "Hmm" or "Hmph": An interjection used to express a range of reactions, most commonly thoughtful consideration, mild skepticism, hesitation, or a non-committal acknowledgment of what has been said. It often indicates the speaker is thinking or processing information.
- A grunt of acknowledgment: A short sound made to show one has heard something, often without full agreement or enthusiasm.
Usage Examples
- Interjection:
- "Hừm, để tôi suy nghĩ một chút." ("Hmm, let me think for a moment.")
- "Hừm, câu chuyện của anh nghe có vẻ lạ." ("Hmph, your story sounds strange.")
- Khi được hỏi, anh ấy chỉ đáp lại: "Hừm". (When asked, he only replied, "Hmm.")
Advanced Usage
- Extended or repeated use: Drawn-out or repeated instances (e.g., "Hừm... hừm...") can emphasize deep thought, doubt, or the process of carefully considering a point.
- "Hừm... hừm... tôi vẫn chưa thực sự bị thuyết phục." ("Hmm... hmm... I'm still not really convinced.")
Variants and Related Words
- Ừm (interj): A softer, more common interjection for "yes," agreement, or acknowledgment. It is less skeptical and more affirmative than "hừm."
- "Ừm, tôi đồng ý." ("Yeah, I agree.")
Synonyms
- Hmm: Used to express thoughtfulness or hesitation.
- Hmph: Used to express mild doubt, displeasure, or skepticism.
- Well...: Used as a filler when pausing to think.
Related Idioms
- While "hừm" itself is a simple interjection, it frequently appears in dialogues to characterize a person's thoughtful or skeptical state.
- Anh ta chỉ "hừm" một tiếng, không nói thêm lời nào. (He just went "hmm," not adding another word.)