Definition

Verb phrase: - To take oratory precautions; to be guarded in what one says: To speak in a way that is intentionally cautious, vague, or non-committal, often by setting conditions or making preliminary statements to avoid responsibility, blame, or a definite commitment. It implies a defensive or evasive speaking strategy.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Anh ấy luôn nói rào trước khi đưa ra ý kiến để không bị khiển trách. (He always takes oratory precautions before giving an opinion to avoid being reprimanded.)
  • Đừng nói rào nữa, hãy trả lời thẳng câu hỏi của tôi. (Stop being so guarded in your speech, just answer my question directly.)
  • Trong cuộc họp, giám đốc đã nói rào về khả năng tăng lương. (In the meeting, the director was guarded in what he said about the possibility of a salary increase.)

Advanced Usage

• This phrase often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting a lack of straightforwardness or honesty. It is used to describe speech that is deliberately ambiguous to create an "escape route."
• It is commonly used in contexts involving promises, commitments, opinions, or statements where the speaker wants to avoid being held fully accountable.

Variants and Related Words

• Nói quanh (Verb): To beat around the bush; to speak indirectly without addressing the main point.
• Nói tránh (Verb): To speak evasively; to avoid saying something directly, often to be polite or avoid conflict.
• Nước đôi (Adjective): Ambiguous; having a double meaning, allowing for different interpretations (often describing words or statements).

Synonyms

• To hedge (one's words): To avoid giving a direct answer or commitment.
• To be non-committal: To not express a definite opinion or decision.
• To speak with caution: To speak carefully to avoid problems.

Related Idioms/Phrases

• Nói có đầu có đuôi: To speak coherently and thoroughly (the opposite of being vague or evasive).
• Nói thẳng nói thật: To speak frankly and honestly.

1. Take oratory precautions, be guarded in what one says