mảy
Definition
- 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.)