Definition

Adjective: - Rough and variegated; patchy; unevenly colored or textured: Describes a surface that is not smooth or uniform, often marked with many different colors, spots, or stains in an irregular, messy, or unsightly way. It implies a lack of neatness and finish.

Usage

• This word is used to describe the physical appearance of surfaces, most commonly walls, but also other objects or landscapes. It carries a negative connotation, suggesting something is poorly finished, dirty, or marred.
• Grammar Note: It functions as an adjective and typically follows the noun it modifies (e.g., ).

Usage Examples

• • The whitewashed wall is still rough and patchy. / The wall was poorly whitewashed and is still blotchy.
• • The road surface became rough and potholed after the heavy rain.
• • The dyed fabric is blotchy; the color is uneven.

Advanced Usage

• Metaphorical Use: While primarily descriptive, it can be used metaphorically to describe something that is irregular, inconsistent, or messy in a non-physical sense, though this is less common.
  • Kế hoạch của họ còn nham nhở, thiếu nhiều chi tiết.

    • Their plan is still patchy and lacks many details.

Variants and Related Words

• Nhám (adj): Rough (to the touch), coarse. Focuses on texture rather than visual patchiness.
• Loang lổ (adj): Splotchy, stained with spreading spots (often of liquid). Can be similar but often implies stains from seepage.
• Lởm chởm (adj): Jagged, rugged, serrated. Focuses on irregular, sharp projections rather than color variation.

Synonyms

• Lốm đốm: Spotted, speckled. (Can be more neutral or even natural, like an animal's coat).
• Loang lổ: Splotchy, blotchy. (Often from stains).
• Không đều màu: Uneven in color.
• Xấu xí: Ugly. (A more general term for unattractive appearance).

Antonyms

• Nhẵn nhụi: Smooth, sleek.
• Bằng phẳng: Flat, even.
• Đều màu: Even-colored, uniform in color.
• Sạch sẽ: Clean.

1. Rough and variegated
   • Bức tường nham nhở
     Arough variegated wall