phè phè

Thân thiện

Một người đàn ông ngồi phè phè hút thuốc lào.

Definition

1. Adjective (Tính từ):
   • Carefree, nonchalant, showing an attitude of indifference or casual disregard: Describes a relaxed, unconcerned, or slightly arrogant manner, often implying a lack of seriousness or worry about consequences or others' opinions.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Anh ta ngồi hút thuốc, mặt tỏ vẻ phè phè. (He sat smoking, his face showing a carefree/nonchalant expression.)
  • Cứ phè phè như không có chuyện gì xảy ra. (Acting all nonchalant as if nothing happened.)

Advanced Usage

• "ngang phè phè": An intensified phrase meaning "utterly brazen," "completely unyielding," or "defiantly arrogant." It describes an extreme attitude of disregard for rules, authority, or social norms.
  • Hắn cãi lại thầy giáo một cách ngang phè phè. (He talked back to the teacher in a utterly brazen manner.)

Variants and Related Words

• Phè (adj): The root word, also meaning nonchalant, indifferent, or coolly arrogant. "Phè phè" is a reduplicative form (từ láy) that emphasizes the quality.
  • Thái độ phè đời. (A couldn't-care-less attitude.)

Synonyms

• Thản nhiên: Calm, composed, unperturbed (often more neutral or positive).
• Lãnh đạm: Indifferent, apathetic, cold.
• Ngông nghênh: Arrogant, cocky (more focused on haughty behavior).

Notes on Meaning

• The word "phè phè" almost always carries a negative or critical connotation. It describes an attitude that is perceived as irresponsibly relaxed, insolently casual, or offensively unbothered in situations that may require more seriousness or concern.
• It is primarily used in spoken Vietnamese and informal contexts.

Học thuật

1. xem phè (láy)