Definition

Adjective: - Slightly rough, somewhat coarse: Describes a surface that feels somewhat rough or coarse to the touch, not completely smooth. This is the primary meaning derived from the root word "nháp" (rough/coarse).

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Mặt bàn này nham nháp, cần được chà nhẵn lại. (This tabletop is slightly rough; it needs to be sanded smooth.)
  • Da anh ấy nham nháp vì phơi nắng nhiều. (His skin is somewhat coarse from too much sun exposure.)
  • Bức tường sơn xong vẫn cảm thấy nham nháp. (The wall still feels a bit rough after being painted.)

Advanced Usage Notes

• Reduplicative Form: "Nham nháp" is a reduplicative form (từ láy) of the root adjective "nháp". In Vietnamese, reduplication often softens the intensity of the root word. Therefore, "nham nháp" means "slightly nháp" or "somewhat rough," indicating a lesser degree of roughness compared to "nháp".
• Sensory Description: This word is primarily used for tactile descriptions, relating to how something feels when touched.

Variants and Related Words

• Nháp (adj): Rough, coarse. This is the root word.
  • Giấy nháp (scratch paper)
• Nhám (adj): An alternative form with a similar meaning of "rough" or "abrasive".
  • Giấy nhám (sandpaper)

Synonyms

• Sần sùi: Bumpy, uneven (often implies a more pronounced irregularity than "nham nháp").
• Thô ráp: Rough, coarse (can be more intense).

Antonyms

• Nhẵn: Smooth.
• Mịn: Fine, smooth (often for surfaces like skin or fabric).
• Trơn: Slippery, smooth.

1. xem nháp (láy)