Definition

Verb Phrase: - To talk evasively / to speak off-topic: The primary meaning of "nói lảng" is to deliberately shift the conversation to a different, often unrelated, subject in order to avoid discussing the current or main topic. It implies a diversionary tactic in speech.

Usage Examples

• Verb Phrase:
  • Khi tôi hỏi về hạn chót, anh ấy liền nói lảng sang chuyện thời tiết. (When I asked about the deadline, he immediately changed the subject to the weather.)
  • Đừng có nói lảng, hãy trả lời câu hỏi của tôi. (Don't talk evasively; please answer my question.)
  • Cô ấy nói lảng vì không muốn thừa nhận lỗi sai. (She spoke off-topic because she didn't want to admit the mistake.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often carries a negative connotation, suggesting dishonesty, avoidance of responsibility, or an unwillingness to address an uncomfortable issue directly.
• It is a common tactic in debates, negotiations, or casual conversations when someone feels pressured or cornered.

Variants and Related Words

• Lảng tránh (v): to evade, to dodge (can refer to actions or topics).
  • Anh ta luôn lảng tránh những câu hỏi khó. (He always evades difficult questions.)

Synonyms

• To evade the question: To avoid giving a direct answer.
• To change the subject: To steer the conversation to a different topic.
• To beat around the bush: To avoid speaking directly about something.

Related Idioms

• Nói trống không: To speak bluntly or without tact (contrasts with the indirect nature of "nói lảng").
• Đánh trống lảng: An idiom with nearly identical meaning to "nói lảng," specifically meaning to beat the drum of evasion—to blatantly avoid the topic.
  • Cứ mỗi lần nhắc đến chuyện cưới xin là anh ta lại đánh trống lảng. (Every time marriage is mentioned, he beats around the bush.)

1. Shift over to another subject, change subjects