sâu cay
Definition
- Adjective:
- Bitter, cutting, or caustic: Describes words, remarks, criticism, or emotions that are deeply hurtful, sharp, and cause profound emotional pain or resentment. It implies a penetrating and lingering sting.
- Poignant or acute: Refers to feelings like disappointment, regret, or failure that are intensely felt and deeply painful.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Lời phê bình của cô ấy rất sâu cay. (Her criticism was very cutting.)
- Anh ấy cảm thấy một nỗi thất vọng sâu cay. (He felt a bitter disappointment.)
- Bài báo chứa đựng sự châm biếm sâu cay. (The article contained caustic satire.)
Advanced Usage
- Used to describe the nature of verbal attacks, satire, or irony that is intentionally wounding and memorable due to its sharp truth or malice.
- Can describe the lasting, profound effect of an emotional wound, such as a betrayal or a deep-seated grudge.
Variants and Related Words
- Sâu sắc (adj): Profound, deep, insightful (often positive, unlike the negative connotation of ).
- Một phân tích sâu sắc. (A profound analysis.)
Synonyms
- Bitter: Having a sharp, unpleasant taste; or feeling anger and resentment.
- Caustic: Severely critical or sarcastic.
- Cutting: Capable of hurting someone's feelings.
- Acerbic: Sharp and forthright in speech or tone.
- Poignant: Evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret.
Related Idioms
- Lời nói sâu cay hơn dao cắt: (Words cut deeper than knives.) An idiom emphasizing the deeply wounding power of harsh speech.
- Cô ấy hiểu rằng lời nói sâu cay hơn dao cắt. (She understood that words cut deeper than knives.)
adj
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bitter
