nói lảng
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb Phrase: - To talk evasively / to speak off-topic: The primary meaning of "nói lảng" is to deliberately shift the conversation to a different, often unrelated, subject in order to avoid discussing the current or main topic. It implies a diversionary tactic in speech.
Usage Examples
- Verb Phrase:
- Khi tôi hỏi về hạn chót, anh ấy liền nói lảng sang chuyện thời tiết. (When I asked about the deadline, he immediately changed the subject to the weather.)
- Đừng có nói lảng, hãy trả lời câu hỏi của tôi. (Don't talk evasively; please answer my question.)
- Cô ấy nói lảng vì không muốn thừa nhận lỗi sai. (She spoke off-topic because she didn't want to admit the mistake.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase often carries a negative connotation, suggesting dishonesty, avoidance of responsibility, or an unwillingness to address an uncomfortable issue directly.
- It is a common tactic in debates, negotiations, or casual conversations when someone feels pressured or cornered.
Variants and Related Words
- Lảng tránh (v): to evade, to dodge (can refer to actions or topics).
- Anh ta luôn lảng tránh những câu hỏi khó. (He always evades difficult questions.)
Synonyms
- To evade the question: To avoid giving a direct answer.
- To change the subject: To steer the conversation to a different topic.
- To beat around the bush: To avoid speaking directly about something.
Related Idioms
- Nói trống không: To speak bluntly or without tact (contrasts with the indirect nature of "nói lảng").
- Đánh trống lảng: An idiom with nearly identical meaning to "nói lảng," specifically meaning to beat the drum of evasion—to blatantly avoid the topic.
- Cứ mỗi lần nhắc đến chuyện cưới xin là anh ta lại đánh trống lảng. (Every time marriage is mentioned, he beats around the bush.)
- Shift over to another subject, change subjects