mếu xệch
Definition
- Adjective:
- Extremely pouty or on the verge of crying with a distorted, drooping mouth: Describes a facial expression where the mouth is twisted and pulled down dramatically, typically seen just before someone bursts into tears or when they are trying very hard not to cry. It emphasizes a more pronounced and contorted state than just "mếu" (pouty).
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Thằng bé nhìn cái bánh rơi xuống đất, mặt mếu xệch. (The boy looked at the cake that fell on the ground, his face extremely pouty.)
- Nghe tin buồn, cô ấy mếu xệch miệng rồi òa khóc. (Hearing the sad news, her mouth twisted into a pout and she burst into tears.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase often intensifies the emotional state, suggesting the person is barely containing their sadness, disappointment, or hurt feelings. It is frequently used to describe the facial expressions of children but can apply to adults in a vulnerable moment.
Variants and Related Words
- Mếu (adj): To be pouty, on the verge of crying.
- Đừng có mếu nữa! (Stop being pouty!)
- Mếu máo (adj): Similar to "mếu xệch," describing a whining, tearful state or complaint.
Synonyms
- On the verge of tears: About to cry.
- Pouty: Showing a sullen or displeased expression by pushing out the lips.
- Long-faced: Having a sad or disappointed expression.
Related Idioms
- While "mếu xệch" itself is a descriptive phrase, it is related to the cultural concept of using facial expressions to communicate vulnerable emotions without words, often to elicit sympathy.