Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Slightly smiling; with a faint, closed-lip smile: Describes a subtle, gentle smile where the lips are closed or only very slightly parted, often suggesting shyness, quiet amusement, or contentment.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Cô bé chỉ múm mím cười khi được khen. (The little girl only smiled faintly when praised.)
  • Ông cụ ngồi múm mím một mình. (The old man sat with a slight smile on his face.)
  • Anh ấy trả lời với nụ cười múm mím. (He answered with a faint, closed-lip smile.)

Advanced Usage

• The word "múm mím" often conveys a non-verbal expression that is more contained and less overt than a full smile (cười tươi). It is frequently used to describe a smile that is private, secretive, or polite.

Variants and Related Words

• Mỉm cười (v): to smile gently.

  • Cô ấy mỉm cười đồng ý. (She smiled gently in agreement.)

• Mủm mỉm (adj): an alternate, less common spelling with the same meaning as "múm mím," describing a plump, cheerful, or smiling appearance.

  • Bà cụ có khuôn mặt mủm mỉm. (The old woman has a plump, cheerful face.)

Synonyms

• Smile faintly: to form a slight smile.
• Smile gently: to smile in a soft, mild manner.
• Smile quietly: to smile without drawing attention.

Related Idioms

• While "múm mím" itself is not typically part of a fixed idiom, it describes the specific facial expression often referenced in phrases about quiet happiness or concealed amusement.

1. xem mím