nói giúp
Definition
- Verb phrase:
- To speak on someone's behalf / to put in a good word: The primary meaning of "nói giúp" is to speak for someone else, often to help them by conveying their message, explaining their situation, or recommending them to another person.
- To help by speaking / to intercede verbally: It refers to the act of using one's words to assist someone, typically by clarifying, defending, or advocating for them in a conversation.
Usage Examples
- Verb phrase:
- Tôi không tiện nói, anh có thể nói giúp tôi với sếp được không? (It's not convenient for me to speak; could you put in a word for me with the boss?)
- Chị ấy nói giúp tôi để giải thích lý do tôi đến muộn. (She spoke on my behalf to explain the reason I was late.)
- Nhờ anh nói giúp một câu, mọi việc đã được giải quyết. (Thanks to you helping by speaking a word, everything was resolved.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase often implies a request for assistance where the speaker has more influence, better eloquence, or a more suitable relationship with the listener. It carries a nuance of seeking favor or mediation through speech.
Variants and Related Words
Nói giùm (v.phr.): A Southern Vietnamese variant with identical meaning and usage to "nói giúp."
- Nhờ bà nói giùm chuyện này với ông chủ. (Please speak on my behalf about this matter to the owner.)
Nói hộ (v.phr.): Another synonym meaning to speak for someone.
- Anh ấy nhờ tôi nói hộ ý kiến ấy trong cuộc họp. (He asked me to voice that opinion for him in the meeting.)
Synonyms
- To intercede: To intervene on behalf of another.
- To advocate for: To speak in support of someone.
- To put in a good word: To recommend someone verbally.
Related Idioms
- While "nói giúp" itself is a common phrase, it is closely related to the concept of "nhờ vả" (to request a favor). The action of "nói giúp" is often a specific favor being asked.