Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Hollow (inside): Describes an object, typically a tree or plant stem, that is empty or has a cavity inside, rather than being solid.
   • Empty, devoid of substance: Can figuratively describe something that lacks meaningful content, value, or sincerity.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Cây cổ thụ này đã bị rỗng ruột. (This ancient tree has become hollow.)
  • Thanh tre này rỗng ruột nên rất nhẹ. (This bamboo pole is hollow, so it's very light.)
  • Lời hứa của họ nghe có vẻ rỗng ruột. (Their promise sounds hollow/devoid of sincerity.)

Advanced Usage

• "nói rỗng ruột": to speak empty/hollow words; to say things without genuine meaning or substance.
  • Đừng nghe những lời nói rỗng ruột ấy. (Don't listen to those hollow words.)
• Used to describe architectural or natural structures with empty interiors.
  • Khối đá bị nước xói mòn thành rỗng ruột. (The rock was eroded by water and became hollow.)

Variants and Related Words

• Rỗng (adj): Empty, hollow. A more general term. (The cup is empty.)
• Trống rỗng (adj): Empty, void (often used for abstract concepts like feelings or life). (A feeling of emptiness.)

Synonyms

• Trống rỗng bên trong: Empty inside.
• Có lỗ hổng bên trong: Having a cavity/void inside.

Related Idioms

• "Bụng rỗng": Literally "empty stomach"; means to be hungry. (Note: This idiom uses "rỗng" but is a different, common compound phrase).
  • Làm việc cả ngày, giờ tôi thấy bụng rỗng rồi. (Working all day, I feel hungry now.)

1. Hollow
   • Cây rỗng ruột
     A hollow tree