nghiêm nghiêm

Mặt cô giáo trông nghiêm nghiêm khi nhắc nhở học sinh.

Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Slightly stern or serious: Describes a demeanor, expression, or atmosphere that is somewhat strict, solemn, or grave, but not to the fullest degree. It implies a moderate level of seriousness.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Ông ấy nhìn bọn trẻ với vẻ mặt nghiêm nghiêm. (He looked at the children with a slightly stern expression.)
  • Bầu không khí trong phòng họp trở nên nghiêm nghiêm. (The atmosphere in the meeting room became somewhat serious.)

Advanced Usage

• This word is a reduplicative form, created by repeating the base adjective "nghiêm" (serious, strict). Reduplication in Vietnamese often softens the intensity of the adjective, indicating a lesser degree or a moderate state.

Variants and Related Words

• Nghiêm (adj): serious, stern, strict.

  • Giáo viên rất nghiêm. (The teacher is very strict.)

• Nghiêm túc (adj): serious, earnest.

  • Thái độ nghiêm túc (a serious attitude)

• Nghiêm trọng (adj): serious, severe (often for situations).

  • Tình hình nghiêm trọng. (The situation is serious.)

Synonyms

• Somewhat stern
• Fairly serious
• Moderately grave

Notes on Usage

• "Nghiêm nghiêm" is primarily used in descriptive contexts, often for facial expressions, tones of voice, or general atmospheres. It is less common than the base word "nghiêm" and carries a nuanced, softened meaning.