Definition

1. Verb:
   • To pluck (a stringed instrument): The primary meaning of "khảy" is to use a finger or a plectrum to pull and release a string on a musical instrument, causing it to vibrate and produce sound.
   • To flick or flip (something): In a broader, often dialectal sense, "khảy" means to use a quick, sharp motion with a finger or thumb to make something move, fall, or be propelled.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Cô ấy khảy đàn guitar một cách điêu luyện. (She plucks the guitar skillfully.)
  • Anh ta khảy hạt đậu ra khỏi bát. (He flicked the bean out of the bowl.)
  • Khảy cho con bọ ngựa nhảy. (Flick to make the praying mantis jump.)

Advanced Usage

• "khảy khảy": A reduplicated form suggesting a light, repeated plucking or flicking action.
  • Nó khảy khảy vào tay tôi. (He kept flicking my hand lightly.)

Variants and Related Words

• Gảy: This is the more standard, non-dialectal synonym for "khảy," meaning to pluck strings. The words are often used interchangeably.
  • Gảy đàn tranh. (To pluck the zither.)

Synonyms

• Pluck: To sound the strings of an instrument.
• Flick: To hit or move with a light, quick motion.
• Flip: To toss or propel with a snap.

Related Idioms

• Khảy móng tay: To flick one's fingernail; often used to indicate a very small, insignificant amount or a dismissive action.
  • Nó không đáng một khảy móng tay. (It's not worth a flick of a fingernail.)

1. (địa phương) như gảy
   • Khảy đàn măng đô lin
     To pluck the strings of a mandolin