Definition

1. Verb:
   • To recite or chant poetry in a slow, rhythmic, and contemplative manner: "ngâm ngợi" refers to the act of reciting or chanting poetry, often one's own composition, in a slow, measured, and expressive way to appreciate its beauty or to praise a subject (like nature). It implies a deep, thoughtful engagement with the poetic words and their rhythm.
   • To improvise and recite poetry: In a more classical or literary context, it can specifically mean to spontaneously compose a poem and then recite it aloud, often to celebrate or glorify something (e.g., the moon, a landscape).

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Ông cụ thường ngâm ngợi những bài thơ cổ dưới ánh trăng. (The old man often recites ancient poems contemplatively under the moonlight.)
  • Khi ngâm ngợi nguyệt, khi cười cợt hoa. (Sometimes chanting poems to the moon, sometimes jesting with flowers.) [Classical literary example]
  • Các nhà thơ xưa hay tụ tập bên hồ để ngâm ngợi. (Poets of the past often gathered by the lake to recite poetry.)

Advanced Usage

• "ngâm ngợi" vs. "ngâm": While "ngâm" broadly means to recite poetry or to soak, "ngâm ngợi" is more specific and literary. It emphasizes the artistic, deliberate, and often improvisational act of poetic recitation, usually in a relaxed or inspired setting. It carries a connotation of savoring the poetic language.
• Context: The word is often used in classical literature, poetry, and descriptions of traditional scholarly pastimes. It evokes an image of a poet or scholar expressing feelings through improvised or memorized verse.

Variants and Related Words

• Ngâm (v): To recite poetry; to soak. A more general term.
• Ngâm vịnh (v): A direct synonym, meaning to chant or recite poetry. Often used interchangeably with "ngâm ngợi" in definitions.
• Ngâm thơ (v): To recite poetry. A common compound phrase.
• Bình thơ (v): To critique or discuss poetry.

Synonyms

• Ngâm vịnh: To chant/recite poetry.
• Đọc thơ: To read poetry (more neutral, less emphasis on the chanting style).
• Xướng thơ: To declaim or chant poetry (similar, but can imply a more performative or initiating act).

Related Idioms/Phrases

• Ngâm ngợi thơ phú: To recite poetry and literary compositions. This phrase emphasizes the activity as a refined cultural practice.
• Câu thơ ngâm ngợi: A line of poetry meant for or worthy of being recited in this contemplative manner.

1. như ngâm vịnh