Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Lazy, indolent: Describes a person who is habitually idle and avoids work or effort. The term carries a colloquial and somewhat critical tone.
   • Lazy-bones: A direct, informal translation capturing the figurative and slightly vulgar nuance of the term.

Usage

• As an adjective: It is used to describe a person's character or state of being lazy. It often implies criticism or a warning about the consequences of laziness.
• Common context: Used in spoken Vietnamese, often in admonishments or casual descriptions. It is not formal language.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Cậu ấy ngay lưng lắm, chẳng chịu làm việc gì cả. (He is such a lazy-bones, he doesn't want to do any work.)
  • Cứ ngay lưng như thế thì sau này làm sao mà nên thân được? (If you are such a lazy-bones, how can you eventually make your way in the world?)
  • Đừng có ngay lưng mãi, dậy mà học bài đi! (Don't be lazy all the time, get up and study!)

Advanced Usage

• The term is figurative, comparing laziness to a stiff or rigid back that doesn't want to move or bend to work. It emphasizes a stubborn refusal to engage in labor.

Variants and Related Words

• Ngay xương: A variant with the same meaning (lazy, indolent). Literally suggests "stiff-boned."
• Lười biếng: The standard, more neutral word for "lazy."
• Lười nhác: Another synonym for lazy, implying negligence.

Synonyms

• Lazy: The general, standard equivalent.
• Idle: Not active or in use.
• Indolent: Wanting to avoid activity or exertion.
• Slothful: Laziness as a habitual trait.

Related Idioms/Phrases

• Ăn không ngồi rồi: To be idle and do nothing (to eat without sitting... meaning to live idly).
• Lười vận động: To be lazy about moving/exercising.
• Chây lì: To be sluggish, slow to act (often due to laziness).

1. Be a lazy-bones
   • Cứ ngay lưng như thế thì sau này làm sao mà nên thân được
     If you are such a lazy-bones, how can you eventually make your way in the world?