sởn gai ốc
Definition
- Idiom (Figurative Expression):
- To have one's hair stand on end / to get goosebumps: A vivid idiom describing the physical reaction of goosebumps (piloerection) appearing on the skin due to an intense emotional stimulus, most commonly extreme fear, terror, or horror. It can also be used for the physical reaction to severe cold.
- To be terrified / to be horrified: Conveys a state of profound fear or shock that causes this physical reaction.
Usage Examples
- Idiom:
- Nghe câu chuyện ma, tôi sởn gai ốc. (Listening to the ghost story, my hair stood on end.)
- Cảnh phim kinh dị khiến khán giả sởn gai ốc. (The horror movie scene gave the audience goosebumps.)
- Trời đêm lạnh giá làm da tôi sởn gai ốc. (The freezing night air gave me goosebumps.)
Advanced Usage
- The idiom is often used in narrative or descriptive contexts to emphasize a visceral, physical reaction to fear or cold. It is stronger than simply saying "sợ" (to be afraid).
Variants and Related Words
- Nổi da gà (idiom): To get goosebumps. This phrase is more general and can be used for fear, cold, or even strong emotions like excitement or awe.
- Bài hát hay quá làm tôi nổi da gà. (The song was so beautiful it gave me goosebumps.)
Synonyms
- To get goosebumps: The direct physical equivalent.
- To have one's hair stand on end: Emphasizes the fear-induced reaction.
- To be horrified / terrified: Describes the emotional state causing the reaction.
Related Idioms
- Sợ vãi mồ hôi lạnh (colloquial idiom): To be so scared one breaks out in a cold sweat. This emphasizes a different physical symptom of extreme fear.
- Bị lạc trong rừng đêm, nó sợ vãi mồ hôi lạnh. (Being lost in the night forest, he was scared to the point of breaking out in a cold sweat.)