Definition

1. Verb:
   • To look at, to view, or to read at one's leisure: A formal, literary verb describing the act of perusing or examining something (like a book, document, or scene) in a relaxed, unhurried manner during free time.
   • To browse, to peruse: Often used in polite or honorific contexts, particularly in classical Vietnamese, to respectfully address the reader of one's letter or work.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Tập thơ này xin gửi đến quý độc giả nhàn lãm. (This poetry collection is respectfully sent for esteemed readers to peruse at their leisure.)
  • Bức thư viết: "Kính gửi ngài để nhàn lãm". (The letter was written: "Respectfully sent for your perusal, Sir.")
  • Trong buổi chiều tĩnh lặng, ông cụ thích nhàn lãm những bức tranh cổ. (On quiet afternoons, the old man enjoys leisurely viewing ancient paintings.)

Advanced Usage

• Used as a term of respect: In classical correspondence, "nhàn lãm" functions as a polite verb to honor the recipient, implying they will read the sender's words when convenient. It elevates the act of reading.
  • Phần trình bày sơ lược trên, kính mong quý vị nhàn lãm. (The brief presentation above is respectfully submitted for your esteemed perusal.)

Variants and Related Words

• Nhàn (adj): Leisurely, idle, free from work.
  • Sống một cuộc sống nhàn nhã. (To live a leisurely life.)
• Lãm (v - Literary): To look at, to view, to read. Often found in compound words.
  • Thưởng lãm (v): To appreciate, to view and enjoy (art, scenery).
  • Quan lãm (v): To observe, to inspect.

Synonyms

• Thưởng thức: To enjoy, to savor (often for art, food).
• Xem xét: To consider, to examine (more analytical).
• Đọc ngẫm: To read and ponder.

Notes on Meaning

• Polite/Honorific Usage: The primary modern understanding is of a formal, respectful term for reading or viewing. The core meaning of "at one's leisure" is embedded within this politeness.
• Literary Register: This word is primarily used in formal writing, classical contexts, or artistic descriptions. It is not common in everyday spoken Vietnamese.

1. Look at at one's leisure