kém cạnh

Thân thiện

Anh ấy cảm thấy mình kém cạnh so với các bạn cùng lớp.

Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To be treated as second fiddle / to be considered inferior: The primary meaning describes a situation where someone is consistently viewed as less important, capable, or worthy than others, occupying a subordinate or disadvantaged position.
   • To be at a disadvantage / to be outshone: It conveys a sense of being overshadowed or falling short in comparison within a specific context.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Anh ấy cảm thấy mình luôn kém cạnh khi làm việc với đối tác nước ngoài. (He always feels he is treated as second fiddle when working with foreign partners.)
  • Công ty này kém cạnh về công nghệ so với các đối thủ. (This company is at a disadvantage in technology compared to its rivals.)
  • Cô ấy không chịu kém cạnh ai trong cuộc thi. (She refuses to be outshone by anyone in the competition.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often implies a persistent or inherent state of disadvantage within a social, professional, or comparative hierarchy. It is frequently used in contexts of competition, social standing, or capability.

Variants and Related Words

• Lép vế (v): to be in a minor/insignificant position; to be overshadowed. This is a close synonym often used interchangeably.
  • Bộ phận kinh doanh thường lép vế so với bộ phận kỹ thuật. (The sales department is often overshadowed by the engineering department.)

Synonyms

• To be inferior: Of lower rank, status, or quality.
• To be second-best: Not as good as the best; next after the first.
• To be outclassed: To be thoroughly surpassed in quality or ability.

Related Idioms

• Kém cơ: To have fewer advantages or resources; to be in a weaker position.

  • Đội bóng kém cơ về thể lực trong hiệp hai. (The football team was at a physical disadvantage in the second half.)

• Chịu thua thiệt: To accept being at a disadvantage or getting the short end of the stick.

  • Người tiêu dùng thường chịu thua thiệt trong các giao dịch này. (Consumers often get the short end of the stick in these transactions.)

Học thuật

1. Be treated as second fiddle
   • Đi đâu cũng kém cạnh
     To be treated as second fiddle wherever one goes