khéo khỉ

Thân thiện

Mẹ cười bảo: "Con trai mẹ khéo khỉ quá!"

Definition

1. Interjection (Affectionate Scolding):
   • A playful, mild, and affectionate term of scolding or mock reprimand, typically directed at someone (often a child or a loved one) for being mischievous, cheeky, or doing something cleverly naughty. It expresses endearment and amusement rather than genuine anger.

Usage Examples

• Interjection:
  • Khéo khỉ! Con lại lấy bánh của mẹ rồi. (You naughty thing! You took mom's cookie again.)
  • Khéo khỉ, hôm nay cậu láu cá thế! (You little rascal, you're being so clever today!)

Advanced Usage

• This phrase is almost exclusively used in spoken, informal Vietnamese, particularly within families or close relationships. Its tone is warm and teasing.

Variants and Related Words

• Khéo: (Adjective) Skillful, clever, deft. This is the root word, and its meaning of "clever" contributes to the teasing tone of "khéo khỉ," implying cleverness used for mischief.
• Tinh nghịch: (Adjective) Mischievous, playful. This is a descriptive synonym for the behavior that might prompt someone to say "khéo khỉ."

Synonyms

• You little rascal: A common English equivalent conveying affectionate scolding.
• You naughty thing: A direct translation of the scolding sentiment.
• You cheeky monkey: A playful English idiom with a very similar tone and meaning.

Related Idioms

• While "khéo khỉ" itself is a set phrase, it is part of a pattern of Vietnamese affectionate scolding that uses animal names, such as:
  • Khéo con cú: A similar, though less common, term of playful reprimand.

Học thuật

1. You naughty (lời mắng yêu)