Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Cute, charming, endearing (especially of a child): Describes a child or young person who is attractively small, lively, and pleasing in appearance or manner, often eliciting affection.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Đứa bé trông thật kháu khỉnh. (The child looks so cute.)
  • Nó cười rất kháu khỉnh. (He/She smiles in a very charming way.)
  • Một cậu bé mặt mũi kháu khỉnh. (A boy with a sweet, endearing face.)

Advanced Usage

• The word kháu khỉnh carries a nuance of innocent, lively charm, typically associated with young children or small things. It is more expressive and affectionate than the more general word (lovable, cute).

Variants and Related Words

• Kháu (adj): This is the root/shortened form with the same meaning as kháu khỉnh. Kháu khỉnh is the more commonly used, extended form.
  • Bé con mới sinh trông kháu lắm. (The newborn baby looks very cute.)

Synonyms

• Dễ thương: Lovable, cute.
• Đáng yêu: Lovable, adorable.
• Xinh xắn: Pretty, cute (often for appearance).
• Lanh lợi: Smart, clever, quick-witted (shares the nuance of pleasing liveliness).

Notes on Meaning

• kháu khỉnh primarily describes the charming and pleasing qualities of a child. Using it for an adult can sometimes sound playful or slightly diminutive, depending on context.
• It often implies a combination of being cute and clever or lively.

1. như kháu