móng mánh

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Vague / indistinct: Refers to information, knowledge, or an impression that is not clear, precise, or confirmed. It describes something heard or understood in a hazy, incomplete, or approximate manner.
    • To get wind of: Describes the act of hearing a rumor or receiving a piece of information indirectly or unofficially, without knowing the full details.
Usage Examples
  • Adjective:
    • Tôi chỉ nghe được móng mánh về vụ việc đó. (I only heard a vague account about that incident.)
    • Thông tin này còn móng mánh, chưa thể kết luận. (This information is still indistinct; we cannot draw a conclusion yet.)
    • Anh ấy móng mánh tin đồn từ vài ngày trước. (He got wind of the rumor a few days ago.)
Advanced Usage
  • The word is often used to describe the initial, unverified stage of receiving news. It implies a lack of solid evidence or firsthand knowledge.
Variants and Related Words
  • Mang máng (adj): approximate, vague, hazy. A close synonym often used interchangeably with .
    • Tôi nhớ mang máng đã gặp anh. (I vaguely remember having met you.)
Synonyms
  • Vague: of uncertain or indefinite character.
  • Indistinct: not clear or sharply defined.
  • Hazy: vague or unclear.
  • To hear rumblings: to hear initial, unconfirmed reports.
Related Idioms
  • Nghe móng mánh: to hear something on the grapevine; to catch a whisper of something.
    • Tôi nghe móng mánh về việc công ty sẽ thay đổi. (I heard whispers about the company making changes.)
móng mánh
Nghe móng mánh về tin đó, anh ấy không dám tin ngay.