Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To speak bluntly or curtly, omitting expected polite forms of address or introductory phrases. It implies addressing someone directly with the core message, often perceived as rude or lacking in respect, especially when speaking to elders or superiors.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Con không được nói trống không với người lớn. (You must not speak bluntly to your elders.)
  • Anh ấy nói trống không: "Mang nước đây" mà không thưa gì. (He spoke curtly: "Bring water here" without any polite preface.)
  • Cô giáo nhắc học sinh không nói trống không khi phát biểu. (The teacher reminded the students not to speak without proper address when giving their opinions.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often carries a negative connotation, criticizing a lack of politeness or refinement in speech. It is frequently used in the structure "" (to speak bluntly to someone).
• It describes the act of speaking, not the content itself. The content can be a simple request or statement, but the manner of delivery—omitting words like "ạ", "dạ", "thưa", "làm ơn", or the person's name/title—makes it "".

Variants and Related Words

• Nói cộc lốc (verb phrase): To speak in a very short, abrupt, and rude manner. This is stronger and more negative than "".
• Nói trống không is sometimes contrasted with "nói có đầu có đuôi" (to speak coherently and properly from start to finish) or "nói năng lễ phép" (to speak politely).

Synonyms

• To speak impolitely: Nói một cách thiếu lễ độ.
• To be blunt: Thẳng thừng (can be neutral or negative depending on context).
• To omit honorifics: Lược bỏ các từ xưng hô lịch sự.

Related Idioms

• Ăn nói mất lịch sự: To speak in an ill-mannered way. This is a more general term for impolite speech.
• While not a direct idiom, the concept is central to the Vietnamese proverb "Lời nói chẳng mất tiền mua, Lựa lời mà nói cho vừa lòng nhau" (Words cost nothing to buy, Choose your words to please each other), which emphasizes the importance of polite and considerate speech.

1. Speak to empty benches
   • Speak without using a proper from of ađress