nhèo nhẽo
Definition
Adjective:
- Whiny, fretful, or persistently complaining in a feeble, tearful, or irritating manner: Describes a person, especially a child, who is being fussy, tearful, and difficult to please, often over minor issues.
- Weak, limp, or lacking firmness (often figurative): Can describe something that is feeble, insipid, or lacking in strength or character, such as a weak argument or a limp handshake.
Verb (to act in a 'nhèo nhẽo' manner):
- To whine, to fuss, to complain in a persistent and annoying way: The act of behaving in a fretful, tearful, or nagging manner to get attention or one's way.
Usage Examples
Adjective:
- Đứa trẻ đó rất nhèo nhẽo, cứ khóc mãi không thôi. (That child is so whiny, crying incessantly.)
- Lập luận của anh ta nghe thật nhèo nhẽo và thiếu thuyết phục. (His argument sounds very feeble and unconvincing.)
Verb:
- Nó cứ nhèo nhẽo đòi mua đồ chơi mới. (He keeps whining to buy a new toy.)
Advanced Usage
- The term often carries a negative connotation of being annoying, immature, or ineffective. It is frequently used to criticize behavior perceived as weak, overly emotional, or manipulative through persistent complaining.
Variants and Related Words
- Nhẽo (adj): Limp, flabby; weak. This is the root component, emphasizing physical or figurative lack of firmness.
- Nhõng nhẽo (adj/verb): An intensified form, meaning extremely whiny, spoiled, or acting in a coquettishly fussy manner to get what one wants.
Synonyms
- Whiny: Complaining in a feeble or fretful way.
- Fretful: Anxious or complaining, especially in a childish way.
- Feeble: Weak; lacking strength or force.
- Limp: Lacking stiffness or firmness.
Related Idioms and Phrases
- Làm nhèo nhẽo / Ăn vạ nhèo nhẽo: To throw a tantrum or to fuss/whine as a tactic to get something.
- Đừng có làm nhèo nhẽo nữa, mẹ không mua kẹo đâu. (Stop throwing a tantrum; Mom won't buy candy.)