Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To fall flat on one's bottom/backside; to fall and land in a seated or sprawled position. This phrase specifically describes the action of falling and landing with one's rear end or the full length of one's back hitting the ground, often implying a loss of balance and an undignified or comical result.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Cậu bé trượt chân trên vỏ chuối và ngã xệp xuống đất. (The boy slipped on a banana peel and fell flat on his bottom.)
  • Cô ấy bị vấp thảm và ngã xệp ngay giữa phòng khách. (She tripped on the rug and fell flat on her backside right in the middle of the living room.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often carries a connotation of a sudden, ungraceful, and complete collapse onto the ground, emphasizing the final seated or supine posture. It is more descriptive and vivid than the simple verb "ngã" (to fall).

Variants and Related Words

• Ngã (v): to fall.
• Ngã ngửa (v): to fall backwards.
• Té (v, Southern Vietnamese): to fall.

Synonyms

• To tumble down
• To plop down
• To fall over

Related Idioms

• While "ngã xệp" itself is not typically part of a larger idiom, it vividly describes the physical action that is the result in many humorous or unfortunate scenarios.