sóm sém
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: - Old and toothless: Describes an elderly person who has lost many or all of their teeth, often implying a sunken mouth appearance due to age.
Usage
- Used to describe the physical state of an elderly person, specifically the loss of teeth.
- It often carries a tone of slight pity or objective observation about the signs of aging.
- Typically modifies nouns referring to people.
Usage Examples
- (He's just over fifty but already looks old and toothless.)
- (The toothless old lady sat chewing betel.)
- (Her toothless mouth made it difficult for her to eat rice.)
Advanced Usage
- The word is quite specific and vivid. It is more descriptive than clinical.
- It can sometimes be used metaphorically or humorously to describe something worn down or lacking essential parts, though this is less common.
Variants and Related Words
- Móm (adj): Toothless (often used similarly, but "sóm sém" emphasizes the state of being both old toothless).
- Già (adj): Old.
- Rụng răng (verb phrase): To lose teeth.
Synonyms
- Già và rụng hết răng: Old and having lost all teeth (more literal phrase).
- Móm: Toothless (can be used at any age, e.g., from birth or accident).
Notes
- There are no direct phrasal verbs or idioms commonly associated with this specific adjective.
- The word is not typically used for young people who have lost teeth; for that, "móm" or "rụng răng" is more appropriate. "Sóm sém" inherently suggests advanced age.