Definition

1. Verb:
   • To send a message: The primary meaning of "nhắn tin" is to transmit a short written or electronic communication to someone, typically with the expectation of a reply. It strongly implies a brief, informal exchange.
   • To text: In modern usage, this is the most common and specific meaning, referring to sending a message via SMS or a messaging application on a mobile phone or computer.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Tôi sẽ nhắn tin cho bạn tối nay. (I will send you a message tonight.)
  • Cô ấy đang nhắn tin trên điện thoại. (She is texting on her phone.)
  • Hãy nhắn tin cho tôi khi bạn đến nơi. (Please text me when you arrive.)

Advanced Usage

• "nhắn tin qua": to message via (a specific platform).

  • Chúng tôi thường nhắn tin qua Zalo. (We usually message via Zalo.)

• "nhắn tin nhóm": to send a group message.

  • Giáo viên nhắn tin nhóm cho phụ huynh. (The teacher sent a group message to the parents.)

Variants and Related Words

• Tin nhắn (n): a message, a text message.

  • Tôi nhận được một tin nhắn từ bạn. (I received a message from you.)

• Nhắn (v): to send word, to pass on a message (often verbally). This is the root verb, with "nhắn tin" being a more specific compound.

  • Nhắn lại với anh ấy là tôi sẽ đến trễ. (Send word to him that I will be late.)

Synonyms

• Text: to send a written message electronically, especially via phone.
• Message: to send a communication.
• DM (Direct Message): to send a private message on social media.

Related Idioms

• Nhắn tin hộ: to ask someone to pass a message along for you.

  • Bạn có thể nhắn tin hộ tôi với chị Lan không? (Can you pass a message to Ms. Lan for me?)

• Nhắn tin như đánh máy: to text very quickly (like typing).

  • Cậu ấy nhắn tin nhanh như đánh máy. (He texts as fast as typing.)