Definition

1. Noun:
   • A tiny bit / a very small amount: An extremely minute or negligible quantity of something, often used in negative contexts to emphasize the complete absence of even the smallest part.
   • A shred / an iota: The smallest conceivable particle or degree.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Không còn một mảy nào. (There isn't a tiny bit left.)
  • Cô ấy không có một mảy nghi ngờ. (She doesn't have a shred of doubt.)
  • Công việc đã hoàn thành không sai một mảy. (The work was completed without an iota of error.)

Advanced Usage

• Used almost exclusively in formal or literary contexts to add emphasis, particularly in the fixed phrase "một mảy" (one tiny bit).
• Commonly found in negative constructions (không... một mảy nào) to stress total absence or perfection.

Variants and Related Words

• Mảy may (adj/phr): An intensified form meaning "the slightest" or "the least bit."
  • Không mảy may suy nghĩ. (Without the slightest thought.)

Synonyms

• Bit: a small amount.
• Iota: an extremely small amount.
• Jot: a very small amount.
• Whit: the smallest part imaginable.
• Shred: a very small amount of something.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Không một mảy may: Not in the least; not at all.
  • Nó không hề hối hận một mảy may. (He didn't regret it in the least.)