Definition

1. Adverbial phrase:

   • In reality, in fact: Used to introduce a statement that presents the true or more accurate state of affairs, often contrasting with a previous assumption or appearance.
   • To be fair, all things considered: Used to introduce a more balanced, objective, or concessive point of view after some reflection.

2. Verb phrase (less common):

   • To recount, to list out: The literal meaning from the components "kể" (to tell) and "ra" (out), implying enumerating or detailing items. This usage is often found in specific constructions.

Usage Examples

• Adverbial phrase:

  • Trông thì khó, nhưng kể ra cũng không phức tạp lắm. (It looks difficult, but in fact, it's not very complicated.)
  • Nó hay cáu giận, nhưng kể ra nó cũng tốt. (He gets angry often, but to be fair, he is kind.)
  • Kể ra thì anh nên nghe lời cô ấy. (All things considered, you should listen to her.)

• Verb phrase:

  • Nếu kể ra hết tất cả lỗi lầm, sẽ không bao giờ dứt. (If we list out all the mistakes, it will never end.)

Advanced Usage

• Used at the beginning of a sentence or clause to signal a shift to a reflective, factual, or concessive observation. It often follows a pause in thought or dialogue.
• Can be paired with "thì" (then) as "kể ra thì..." to mean "if one considers it then..." or "frankly speaking...".

Variants and Related Words

• Thực ra (adv): Actually, in fact. A close synonym often used interchangeably with the adverbial sense of "kể ra".
• Nói thật ra (phr): To tell the truth, frankly speaking.
• Kể (v): To tell, to narrate.

Synonyms

• In fact, actually, frankly, to be honest, all things considered.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Kể ra nghe: Literally "tell it out to hear," used to prompt someone to share a story or their thoughts.
  • Chuyện gì vậy? Kể ra nghe xem. (What's the matter? Tell me about it.)
• Kể chi tiết ra: To detail, to spell out.
  • Anh phải kể chi tiết ra mọi sự việc. (You must spell out all the events in detail.)

1. In reality, in fact, to be fair
   • Kể ra nó cũng tốt
     To be fair, he's a kind man