Definition

1. Noun phrase:
   • Half a word / a hint: Refers to an incomplete utterance or a subtle suggestion that is intentionally not fully expressed. The phrase implies that only a partial statement is necessary for understanding.
   • A single word: In the negative construction "không nói nửa lời," it emphasizes the act of not speaking even a single word, indicating complete silence or refusal to speak.

Usage Examples

• Noun phrase:
  • Chúng tôi hiểu nhau, chỉ cần nói nửa lời là đủ. (We understand each other; only half a word is needed.)
  • Cô ấy giận đến mức không nói nửa lời. (She was so angry that she didn't say a single word.)
  • Anh ấy gợi ý nửa lời về kế hoạch mới. (He hinted at the new plan with just half a word.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is most commonly used in set expressions that describe deep mutual understanding or, conversely, total silence.
• It often functions idiomatically, where the literal meaning ("half a word") conveys a figurative concept (an implicit hint or complete absence of speech).

Variants and Related Words

• Nói nửa lời: (verb phrase) to speak half a word; to hint.
  • Anh ta chỉ nói nửa lời rồi dừng lại, chờ tôi hiểu ý. (He only spoke half a word then stopped, waiting for me to catch his meaning.)

Synonyms

• Hint: a slight or indirect indication or suggestion.
• Innuendo: an allusive or oblique remark or hint.
• A single word: one word (used in negative contexts).

Related Idioms

• Nói nửa lời là hiểu: (To understand from half a word) To have such a close understanding that only a hint is needed.

  • Hai chị em rất thân, nói nửa lời là hiểu. (The two sisters are very close; they understand each other from just a hint.)

• Không nói nửa lời: (To not say half a word / To not say a single word) To remain completely silent.

  • Trước mặt đám đông, cậu ấy không nói nửa lời. (In front of the crowd, he didn't utter a single word.)

1. Nói nửa lời là hiểu
2. To know how to take a hint