Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Dazed; Absent-minded: Describes a state of being mentally distracted, lost in thought, or not fully aware of one's surroundings, often due to surprise, deep contemplation, or emotional shock.
   • Bewildered; Confused: Expresses a state of mild confusion or disorientation, where one seems unsure or perplexed.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Cô ấy ngồi ngơ ngẩn nhìn ra cửa sổ. (She sat dazed, looking out the window.)
  • Anh ấy có vẻ ngơ ngẩn sau khi nghe tin đó. (He seemed bewildered after hearing that news.)
  • Đừng có ngơ ngẩn thế, tập trung vào công việc đi! (Don't be so absent-minded, focus on your work!)

Advanced Usage

• The word often describes a temporary, passive state of mind rather than a permanent condition. It can imply a certain poetic or pitiable quality when someone is lost in their thoughts.

Variants and Related Words

• Ngẩn ngơ (adj): A very close synonym, also meaning dazed, spellbound, or captivated, often with a slightly more romantic or wistful connotation.
  • Chàng trai đứng ngẩn ngơ ngắm nhìn cô gái. (The young man stood spellbound, gazing at the girl.)

Synonyms

• Dazed: Stunned or confused.
• Absent-minded: Lost in thought and unaware of surroundings.
• Bewildered: Perplexed and confused.
• Preoccupied: Engrossed in thought.

Related Idioms

• While "ngơ ngẩn" itself is commonly used as a standalone adjective, it contributes to a descriptive tone in phrases depicting a state of distraction or longing.
  • Ngơ ngẩn như người mất hồn: To be dazed as if one has lost one's soul (i.e., utterly distracted or heartbroken).