Definition

1. Verb:
   • To edge closer; to sidle up; to approach gradually and often casually or stealthily. This describes moving nearer to someone or something in a slow, unhurried, and sometimes indirect or inconspicuous manner.
   • To linger around; to hang about. This refers to spending time in a place without a clear, urgent purpose, often in a leisurely or aimless way.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Cậu bé lân la đến gần bàn để xem đồ chơi. (The boy edged closer to the table to look at the toys.)
  • Anh ấy lân la làm quen với các vị khách mới. (He sidled up to get acquainted with the new guests.)
  • Mấy đứa trẻ lân la ở cổng trường chờ bạn. (The children lingered around the school gate waiting for their friends.)

Advanced Usage

• The word often implies a sense of casualness, indirect intention, or a lack of formality in the approach. It is frequently used in social contexts where one person is cautiously initiating contact or conversation.

Variants and Related Words

• Lần la (v): A less common variant with a similar meaning of moving slowly or lingering.

Synonyms

• Sidle up: To approach someone slowly and cautiously, especially as if trying not to be noticed.
• Linger: To stay in a place longer than necessary, typically out of reluctance to leave.
• Loiter: To stand or wait around idly or without apparent purpose.

Related Idioms

• Lân la dò hỏi: To casually and gradually probe for information.
  • Phóng viên lân la dò hỏi thông tin từ người dân. (The reporter casually probed for information from the locals.)