ngại ngại
Definition
- Adjective:
- Slightly hesitant or reluctant: Describes a mild state of hesitation, reluctance, or unwillingness, often due to shyness, inconvenience, or a small concern. It implies a feeling that is not strong or absolute but is perceptible.
- A bit embarrassed or shy: Conveys a sense of mild embarrassment or self-consciousness in a social situation.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Cô ấy tỏ vẻ ngại ngại khi được khen. (She showed a slight hesitation when complimented.)
- Tôi ngại ngại không muốn làm phiền anh ấy lúc này. (I am a bit reluctant to bother him right now.)
- Cậu bé ngại ngại đứng sau lưng mẹ. (The boy stood shyly behind his mother.)
Advanced Usage
- The word "ngại ngại" is a reduplication of the base adjective "ngại" (meaning hesitant, reluctant, or embarrassed). The reduplication softens the intensity, indicating a lesser degree of the feeling. It is often used to describe a tentative or polite initial reaction.
Variants and Related Words
Ngại (adj): Hesitant, reluctant, embarrassed.
- Anh ấy ngại nói trước đám đông. (He is hesitant to speak in front of a crowd.)
Ngại ngùng (adj): Bashful, shy, timid.
- Cô dâu trông thật ngại ngùng. (The bride looks very bashful.)
Synonyms
- Hesitant: Tentative or unsure.
- Reluctant: Unwilling or disinclined.
- Bashful: Shy or easily embarrassed.
Related Idioms
- Ngại ngần: To be hesitant or to have scruples. This is a close synonym, often interchangeable with "ngại ngại" but can sound slightly more formal or literary.
- Đừng ngại ngần, cứ nói đi. (Don't hesitate, just say it.)