lấy lời
Definition
Verb phrase:
- To take words / to use words: The literal meaning refers to the act of taking or using spoken or written language.
- To quote / to cite: To use someone else's spoken or written statements as a reference or example.
- To take something said (and act on it): To use what has been said as a basis for action or justification.
Verb phrase (figurative/idiomatic):
- To take someone at their word: To believe what someone says and act accordingly, often implying a literal or trusting interpretation.
- To use as a pretext: To take a statement or remark and use it as an excuse or reason for one's own actions.
Usage Examples
- Verb phrase:
- Cô ấy lấy lời của chủ tịch để minh họa cho quan điểm. (She used the chairman's words to illustrate the point.)
- Đừng chỉ lấy lời tôi nói mà không xem xét ngữ cảnh. (Don't just take my words without considering the context.)
- Anh ấy lấy lời hứa của tôi để thúc giục tôi hoàn thành công việc. (He took my promise to urge me to finish the work.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase is often used to describe a specific, sometimes deliberate, act of selecting and employing verbal statements. It can carry a neutral tone (as in quoting) or a slightly negative connotation (as in using words as a mere pretext).
Variants and Related Words
- Lấy lời lẽ (verb phrase): to use arguments or reasoning. This variant emphasizes using a line of argument rather than a simple quote.
- Hắn lấy lời lẽ ngụy biện để bào chữa. (He used sophistical arguments to defend himself.)
Synonyms
- Quote: to repeat someone's exact words.
- Cite: to mention as an example or proof.
- Use as a pretext: to use as an excuse.
Related Idioms
Lấy lời ngọt ngào: to use sweet words (to persuade or deceive).
- Kẻ lừa đảo thường lấy lời ngọt ngào để dụ dỗ nạn nhân. (Swindlers often use sweet words to entice victims.)
Lấy lời hứa làm trọng: to consider a promise as binding.
- Ông ấy là người lấy lời hứa làm trọng. (He is a person who considers a promise binding.)