mỗi tội
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Conjunction (Informal):
- However, but, the only trouble is: Used to introduce a contrasting or negative point that slightly diminishes or qualifies a previously mentioned positive statement. It expresses a concession or drawback, similar to "the only problem is" or "the catch is."
Usage Examples
- In sentences connecting contrasting ideas:
- Cô ấy rất thông minh, mỗi tội hơi lười. (She is very intelligent, however, she is a bit lazy.)
- Căn hộ này đẹp và rộng, mỗi tội giá hơi cao. (This apartment is beautiful and spacious, the only trouble is the price is a bit high.)
- Anh ấy tốt bụng lắm, mỗi tội hay nóng tính. (He is very kind, but he has a quick temper.)
Advanced Usage Notes
- Informal Register: "Mỗi tội" is primarily used in spoken Vietnamese and informal writing. In formal contexts, alternatives like "tuy nhiên" (however) or "nhưng" (but) are preferred.
- Position in Sentence: It typically appears at the beginning of the second clause, following a comma that separates it from the initial positive statement.
- Nuance: The phrase often carries a tone of slight regret or惋惜 (wanxi), acknowledging a positive quality while pointing out a specific flaw that partially offsets it. It is less harsh than a direct contradiction.
Variants and Related Words
- Tuy nhiên: However (more formal, neutral).
- Nhưng: But (standard, most common).
- Chỉ có điều: The only thing is (similar informal tone, slightly softer).
- Đáng tiếc là: Unfortunately, the regrettable thing is (emphasizes regret more strongly).
Synonyms
- Tuy vậy: Nevertheless, even so.
- Thế nhưng: But then, however.
Related Phrases / Idioms
- Có mỗi tội...: There's just the one problem that... (A common colloquial structure to emphasize the single drawback).
- Nhà mới của họ toàn bộ, có mỗi tội xa trung tâm quá. (Their new house is fully equipped; there's just the one problem—it's too far from the center.)
- (khẩu ngữ) None the less
- Thông minh, mỗi tội lườiIntelligent, none the less lazy