ngậm cười
Definition
- Verb phrase:
- To smile contentedly in one's heart; to be inwardly pleased or amused: To feel a deep sense of joy, satisfaction, or quiet amusement that is contained within oneself, often without a full outward expression. It implies a private, serene happiness.
Usage Examples
- Verb phrase:
- Biết con mình đã trưởng thành, ông cụ ngậm cười nơi chín suối. (Knowing his child had grown up, the old man could rest in peace with a contented smile.)
- Cô ấy ngậm cười khi nghe tin tốt. (She smiled inwardly upon hearing the good news.)
- Chiến thắng nhỏ ấy khiến anh ngậm cười suốt ngày. (That small victory made him feel quietly pleased all day.)
Advanced Usage
- This phrase is often used in reflective or literary contexts to describe a profound, personal satisfaction. It is commonly associated with the fulfillment of a wish or the resolution of a long-held concern, sometimes even used in contexts about passing away contentedly.
Variants and Related Words
- Mỉm cười (v): to smile (a gentle, visible smile).
- Cười thầm (v): to laugh inwardly, to chuckle to oneself.
Synonyms
- To be inwardly pleased: To feel happy inside without obvious display.
- To smile to oneself: To have a private smile, often reflecting contentment.
- To rest content: To be satisfied and at peace.
Related Idioms
- Ngậm cười chín suối / Ngậm cười nơi chín suối: An idiom meaning "to die with a contented smile" or "to rest in peace," having seen one's wishes fulfilled or knowing that loved ones are well.
- Chỉ cần con cái thành đạt, bà ấy có thể ngậm cười chín suối. (As long as her children are successful, she could die content.)