Definition

Adjective: - To be in an inferior position; to be at a disadvantage: Describes a state of having lower status, less power, or less influence compared to others in a given social, professional, or competitive context. It implies a comparative lack of standing or leverage.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Trong cuộc đàm phán, công ty chúng tôi cảm thấy hơi kém vế. (In the negotiation, our company felt somewhat at a disadvantage.)
  • Anh ấy kém vế hơn về học vấn so với các đồng nghiệp. (He is in an inferior position regarding education compared to his colleagues.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in comparative structures (e.g., - more disadvantaged) to explicitly state what or whom one is being compared to.
• It frequently appears in contexts discussing social hierarchy, business competition, or personal relationships where power dynamics are relevant.

Variants and Related Words

• Kém cạnh (adj): To be inferior; to be less competent or in a worse position. This is a direct synonym and is often used interchangeably with .

Synonyms

• Inferior: Lower in rank, status, or quality.
• Disadvantaged: In a less favorable position or circumstance.
• Outmatched: Surpassed by others in ability or power.

Related Idioms

• Thua kém: To be worse than; to fall short of. This phrase emphasizes the aspect of losing or being lesser in a comparison.
  • Sản phẩm của họ không thua kém đối thủ. (Their product is not inferior to the competitor's.)

1. như kém cạnh