nịnh

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The Vietnamese word "nịnh" generally means to flatter or to fawn on someone. It describes the act of praising someone excessively, often to gain their favor or to be in their good graces.

Basic Usage

• Meaning: To compliment someone in a way that seems insincere or exaggerated.
• Usage: You can use "nịnh" when talking about someone who is trying to impress another person through flattery.

Example

• Sentence: "Anh ấy luôn nịnh sếp để được tăng lương."
  • Translation: "He always flatters the boss to get a raise."

Advanced Usage

In more complex contexts, "nịnh" can imply manipulation, where someone uses flattery as a tactic to achieve personal goals. For example, in a workplace setting, one might "nịnh" their superiors to gain a promotion.

Word Variants

• Nịnh bợ: This variant also carries the same meaning of flattery but can imply a more servile or obsequious attitude.
• Nịnh nọt: This variant emphasizes excessive flattery that is often seen as insincere or deceitful.

Different Meanings

While "nịnh" primarily refers to flattery, in some contexts, it can also imply insincerity. For example, if someone is "nịnh" you, they might not genuinely mean what they are saying, but rather are trying to manipulate or influence you.

Synonyms

• Tâng bốc: To praise someone excessively.
• Khích lệ: To encourage, though this can be more sincere than "nịnh".

Summary

"Nịnh" is a useful word in Vietnamese to describe the act of flattering someone, often with ulterior motives. It's important to recognize the nuances in its use, as it can imply sincerity or insincerity depending on the context.

Academic

1. Flatter, fawn on, fawn upon