làm quà
Definition
Verb phrase:
- To give as a small gift / to present a token: The primary meaning refers to the act of giving a modest, often symbolic, item to someone as a gesture of goodwill, affection, or courtesy, not necessarily for a formal occasion.
- To give as a souvenir or memento: It can imply giving something to remember a person, place, or event by.
Adjectival phrase (t.):
- For amusement / as a diversion: Describes something (like a story or anecdote) shared for light entertainment or to please someone, not to be taken seriously or as a substantial gift.
Usage Examples
Verb phrase:
- Tôi mua một chiếc khăn nhỏ làm quà cho bà. (I bought a small scarf to give as a gift to my grandmother.)
- Anh ấy lấy mấy quả ổi trong vườn làm quà cho lũ trẻ. (He picked some guavas from the garden as a little present for the children.)
Adjectival phrase:
- Đây chỉ là câu chuyện cười làm quà thôi. (This is just a funny story for amusement.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase often carries a tone of modesty, suggesting the gift is not grand or expensive but is given from the heart or as a polite gesture to strengthen a social bond.
- It is commonly used in contexts where the giver wants to show thoughtfulness without the formality or expectation associated with a major gift.
Variants and Related Words
- Tặng quà (v): to give a gift (more general and formal than "làm quà").
- Biếu (v): to present a gift (often to elders or superiors, showing respect).
Synonyms
- To give a token: To present a small symbolic gift.
- As a memento: Something kept as a reminder.
- For pleasure: For the purpose of giving enjoyment.
Related Idioms
- Chuyện làm quà: A story told for light entertainment; a trivial anecdote.
- Cụ kể vài chuyện ngày xưa làm quà cho con cháu nghe. (The old man told a few stories from the past as a diversion for his grandchildren.)