Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Earlier than usual or expected: Describes an action or event occurring before the customary or scheduled time.
   • Prompt, timely: Can imply a sense of being well-prepared or acting without delay.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Ăn cơm sớm sủa để còn đi xem hát. (Have dinner earlier than usual in order to go to the theatre afterwards.)
  • Hôm nay chị đến sớm sủa nhỉ! (You came very early today, didn't you!)
  • Chúng ta nên lên đường cho sớm sủa. (We should set off early/promptly.)

Advanced Usage

• "sớm sủa" vs. "sớm": While both mean "early," "sớm sủa" often carries a stronger emphasis on being or early compared to the norm or expectation. It can also add a nuance of commendable promptness.
  • Anh ấy luôn hoàn thành công việc một cách sớm sủa. (He always completes his work in a timely/prompt manner.)

Variants and Related Words

• Sớm (adj/adv): Early. The core root word.
• Sớm muộn (idiom/phrase): Sooner or later.
• Sớm hơn (phrase): Earlier (comparative form).

Synonyms

• Sớm: Early.
• Nhanh chóng: Quickly, promptly (emphasizes speed rather than earliness).
• Kịp thời: Timely, in time.

Related Phrases

• Đi sớm về sớm: To leave early and return early (describing a routine).
• Thức dậy sớm sủa: To wake up very early.

Related Idioms

• Được mùa sớm sủa: To have an early harvest (can be used literally or figuratively for early success).
• Sớm sủa thì tốt: The earlier, the better. (Implies prompt action is advantageous.)

1. Earlier than usual
   • Ăn cơm sớm sủa để còn đi xem hát
     To have dinner earlier than usual in order to go to the theatre afterwards