Definition

1. Verb (informal/slang):
   • To spank, to beat (a child): "phễn" specifically refers to the act of hitting or spanking a child, typically as a form of punishment. It carries a colloquial and somewhat vulgar tone.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Phễn cho thằng bé mấy roi. (To give the little boy a beating.)
  • Bố nó phễn nó vì tội nghịch ngợm. (His father spanked him for being mischievous.)
  • Đừng có phễn trẻ con như thế! (Don't beat children like that!)

Advanced Usage Notes

• Register and Connotation: The word "phễn" is considered informal, colloquial, and has a vulgar nuance. It is not used in formal writing or polite conversation. It implies a physical punishment, often with an object like a stick or rod ("roi").
• Typical Context: Its use is almost exclusively limited to describing the corporal punishment of children by adults (e.g., parents, teachers). It is not typically used for fights between adults.

Variants and Related Words

• Đánh (đòn): (verb) To hit, to beat. This is the standard, more neutral term for striking someone. "Đánh" is broader and can be used in various contexts (e.g., đánh nhau - to fight, đánh bóng - to hit a ball).
• Vụt: (verb) To whip, to lash. Often implies using a flexible object like a whip or cane.
• Quất: (verb) To whip, to strike swiftly. Similar to "vụt."

Synonyms

• Đánh đòn: To administer a beating/caning.
• Trừng phạt thân thể: To physically punish.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• Ăn phễn: (slang, idiom) To get a beating.
  • Thằng bé hư nên ăn phễn. (The boy was naughty so he got a beating.)
• Phễn cho một trận: (colloquial phrase) To give someone a thorough beating.
  • Nó bị bố phễn cho một trận nên thân. (He got a proper beating from his father.)

1. (khẩu ngữ) Beat
   • Phễn cho thằng bé mấy roi
     To give the little boy a beating