Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To become polished/shiny with use: Refers to an object, typically made of wood, developing a smooth, glossy, or patinated surface from prolonged handling or friction.
   • To become emboldened; to push one's luck; to become more demanding: Describes a person who, when shown excessive leniency or concession, becomes more assertive, arrogant, or increases their demands.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Cái bàn gỗ cũ này đã lên nước rất đẹp. (This old wooden table has become beautifully polished with use.)
  • Đừng chiều nó nữa, nó sẽ càng lên nước đấy. (Don't indulge him anymore; he'll just become more demanding.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often carries a negative connotation in its figurative sense, implying someone is taking advantage of another's weakness or kindness to assert dominance or make further unreasonable requests.

Variants and Related Words

• Lên râu (verb phrase): A synonym primarily for the figurative meaning of becoming emboldened or arrogant.

Synonyms

• To become polished: to develop a patina, to become glossy.
• To become emboldened: to become arrogant, to push one's luck, to take advantage.

Related Idioms

• Được nước lên voi: To be given an inch and take a mile. This idiom shares the figurative sense of exploiting concessions to gain undue advantage or status.