Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To bow one's head/body (in respect): To incline one's body forward as a gesture of deep reverence, admiration, or homage, typically towards someone deceased or highly venerated.
   • To pay homage: To express profound respect, tribute, or deference through a physical or symbolic gesture of bowing.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Cả khán phòng nghiêng mình tưởng nhớ nhạc sĩ tài hoa. (The entire auditorium bowed in memory of the talented composer.)
  • Chúng ta nghiêng mình trước sự hy sinh của các anh hùng. (We bow before the sacrifice of the heroes.)
  • Bài báo nghiêng mình ca ngợi những đóng góp thầm lặng của các y tá. (The article paid homage to the silent contributions of the nurses.)

Advanced Usage

• Used in formal, solemn, or literary contexts to convey a deep emotional stance of respect, often in eulogies, memorials, or tributes.
• Can be used metaphorically in writing or speech to indicate giving great credit or showing deep admiration without a physical act.

Variants and Related Words

• Cúi mình (v): To bow one's head or bend the body forward, often in greeting or everyday respect. It is generally less profound than "nghiêng mình."
  • Học sinh cúi mình chào thầy giáo. (The students bowed to greet their teacher.)

Synonyms

• Bow (in respect): To bend the head or upper body as a sign of reverence.
• Pay homage: To show respect or honor publicly.
• Venerate: To regard with great respect.

Related Idioms

• Nghiêng nước nghiêng thành: (Idiom, from classical literature) Literally "to tilt cities and topple states," used to describe a woman of breathtaking beauty. While it shares the root "nghiêng" (to tilt), its meaning is distinct from the respectful gesture of "nghiêng mình."
  • Sắc đẹp của bà ấy được ví như nghiêng nước nghiêng thành. (Her beauty was described as being able to topple cities and states.)