Definition

1. Verb:
   • To creep (into dark and narrow places): To move stealthily or quietly into a confined, dark, or hidden space, often to hide or seek shelter.
   • To hide oneself (in a cramped place): To conceal oneself by entering a tight, obscure, or overgrown area.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Con mèo rúc ráy ở dưới gầm giường. (The cat crept under the bed.)
  • Những chú gà con rúc ráy trong bụi rậm để tránh nắng. (The chicks hid in the thick bushes to avoid the sun.)
  • Nó thích rúc ráy vào góc tối để đọc sách. (He likes to creep into a dark corner to read.)

Advanced Usage

• The verb often implies a deliberate, furtive, or protective action of entering a space that is snug, concealed, or not easily accessible. It can carry a nuance of seeking safety, secrecy, or isolation.

Variants and Related Words

• Rúc (v): To huddle, to snuggle, or to burrow. Often used for curling up or nestling into something for warmth or comfort.
  • Đứa trẻ rúc vào lòng mẹ. (The child snuggled into her mother's arms.)
• Lén lút (v/adj): To act stealthily or sneakily. While related in the sense of secretive movement, "lén lút" focuses more on the manner of action rather than the act of entering a confined space.

Synonyms

• To creep: To move slowly and carefully, especially to avoid being noticed.
• To hide: To put or keep out of sight.
• To slink: To move quietly and stealthily, often due to guilt or fear.
• To burrow: To make a hole or tunnel, often to hide or seek shelter.

Related Idioms

• Rúc đầu vào cát: Literally "to burrow one's head in the sand." It means to ignore obvious problems or dangers, akin to the English idiom "to bury one's head in the sand."
  • Đừng rúc đầu vào cát trước những khó khăn. (Don't bury your head in the sand when facing difficulties.)

1. Creep (into dark and narrow places)
   • Rúc ráy ở bụi rậm
     To creep into thick bushes