neo túng
Definition
- Adjective:
- Financially strapped or hard-pressed: Describes a state of being in a difficult or tight situation due to a lack of money or resources. It often implies a sense of being constrained and struggling to make ends meet.
- In a bind / in a pinch: Can describe a general state of being in a difficult position, often due to a shortage of critical elements like manpower or funds.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Gia đình anh ấy đang rất neo túng sau trận dịch. (His family is very financially strapped after the pandemic.)
- Công ty mới thành lập nên còn neo túng về nhân lực. (The newly established company is still in a bind regarding manpower.)
- Tình hình neo túng khiến họ phải bán đi căn nhà. (The hard-pressed situation forced them to sell the house.)
Advanced Usage
- The term often describes a prolonged or structurally difficult situation for a family, business, or project, rather than a temporary cash shortage. It conveys a sense of being stuck or anchored ("neo") in a state of need ("túng").
Variants and Related Words
- Túng quẫn (adj): destitute, in dire straits (often more severe than "neo túng").
- Khó khăn (adj): difficult, facing hardships (a more general term).
- Thiếu thốn (adj): lacking, in short supply.
Synonyms
- Financially strained: Experiencing financial difficulty.
- In dire straits: In a very difficult and serious situation.
- Hard up: Lacking money.
Related Idioms
- Neo đơn: Describes a state of being alone and vulnerable, like a ship with a single anchor. While related in imagery, it focuses on solitude rather than financial constraint.
- Túng thiếu: To be in need, to be lacking. This is a core component of the meaning of "neo túng."