nhỡ tay
Definition
- Phrase:
- To do something accidentally or unintentionally with one's hand: This phrase describes an action performed by hand that was not deliberate, often resulting in a minor accident, such as dropping, breaking, or spilling something.
- To slip from one's hand: It can specifically refer to an object accidentally falling or being released from one's grip.
Usage Examples
- Phrase:
- Tôi nhỡ tay làm đổ ly nước. (I accidentally knocked over the glass of water.)
- Cô ấy nhỡ tay đánh rơi chiếc điện thoại. (She accidentally dropped her phone.)
- Xin lỗi, tôi nhỡ tay làm vỡ lọ hoa. (Sorry, I accidentally broke the vase.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase is often used to explain and apologize for a minor mishap. It implies a lack of intention or carelessness, not malice.
- It can sometimes be used metaphorically in informal contexts to mean making an unintended mistake in a non-physical action, such as sending a message to the wrong person.
Variants and Related Words
- Lỡ tay (phrase): A common variant with identical meaning and usage.
- Anh ấy lỡ tay xóa file quan trọng. (He accidentally deleted the important file.)
Synonyms
- Accidentally: by chance; unintentionally.
- Inadvertently: without intention; accidentally.
- By mistake: as a result of a mistake.
Related Idioms
- Nhỡ miệng / Lỡ miệng: to make a verbal slip; to say something unintentionally.
- Tôi xin lỗi vì đã lỡ miệng. (I'm sorry for the slip of the tongue.)