Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Wayward and impertinent: Describes a person, typically a child or subordinate, who is disobedient, stubbornly contrary, and shows a lack of proper respect or deference. It implies a defiant and unruly attitude.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Đứa trẻ đó rất ngổ ngược, không nghe lời ai cả. (That child is very wayward and impertinent; he doesn't listen to anyone.)
  • Thái độ ngổ ngược của nó khiến thầy cô phiền lòng. (His impertinent attitude troubles the teachers.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in contexts criticizing behavior that defies social or familial hierarchy and expectations of respect. It carries a stronger negative connotation than simply being "disobedient," adding a layer of insolence.

Variants and Related Words

• Ngỗ ngược (adj): This is a common variant spelling with the same meaning.
  • Nó ăn nói ngỗ ngược với bố mẹ. (He speaks impertinently to his parents.)

Synonyms

• Insolent: Showing a rude and arrogant lack of respect.
• Defiant: Openly resisting authority.
• Contrary: Perversely inclined to disagree or oppose.
• Unruly: Disorderly and disruptive.

Related Idioms

• While "ngổ ngược" itself is not typically part of a fixed idiom, the behavior it describes is central to phrases like:
  • Cãi cha cãi mẹ: To talk back to one's parents (a specific example of ngổ ngược behavior).

    • Đừng có ngổ ngược, cãi cha cãi mẹ như thế! (Don't be so impertinent and talk back to your parents like that!)

1. Wayward and impertinent