Definition

Verb: * To clean; to wipe clean: The action of removing dirt, dust, or moisture from a surface, typically using a cloth or similar tool. It implies a thorough cleaning action, often involving wiping.

Usage

The verb "lau chùi" is used to describe the act of cleaning surfaces like furniture, floors, windows, or objects by wiping them. It is a common and practical term in daily life. * It is often used with objects that are solid and have surfaces, such as tables, chairs, glass, or appliances. * It conveys a sense of making something clean and tidy through physical wiping.

Examples

• (My mother cleans / wipes the glass door every morning.)
• (After the meal, you should wipe the table.)
• (The cleaner is cleaning / mopping the floor.)

Advanced Usage

• "lau chùi cẩn thận": to clean carefully/thoroughly.
  • Cô ấy lau chùi cẩn thận chiếc bình cổ trước khi trưng bày. (She carefully cleaned the antique vase before displaying it.)
• The term can sometimes imply a more general "cleaning" action beyond just wiping, especially in compound phrases, but its core meaning remains focused on the wiping motion to achieve cleanliness.

Variants and Related Words

• Lau (verb): To wipe. This is a more general and common single verb for the action of wiping, often used interchangeably with "lau chùi" but sometimes for quicker or less thorough actions (e.g., - to wipe tears).
• Chùi (verb): To scrub or wipe off. This verb emphasizes a slightly more vigorous rubbing action to remove stubborn dirt (e.g., - to scrub off a stain). "Lau chùi" combines the meanings of both.
• Lau dọn (verb phrase): To clean and tidy up. This phrase has a broader meaning, encompassing cleaning and organizing a space.
• Vệ sinh (verb): To sanitize, to hygienically clean. This term often implies cleaning for hygiene and health purposes and can be used for both objects and personal hygiene.

Synonyms

• Làm sạch: To make clean. (A more general synonym.)
• Quét dọn: To sweep and tidy. (Specifically for floors and general tidying.)

Related Phrases / Compound Words

• Đồ lau chùi: Cleaning tools/supplies (e.g., cloths, cleaners).
  • Tôi cần mua thêm đồ lau chùi. (I need to buy more cleaning supplies.)
• Giẻ lau chùi: Cleaning rag/cloth.
  • Anh ấy dùng giẻ lau chùi để lau xe. (He uses a cleaning cloth to wipe the car.)

verb

1. to clean; to wipe clean