Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Romantic; amorous; gallant: Describes words, actions, or behavior that express tender, loving, or affectionate feelings, often in a charming, delicate, or slightly flirtatious manner.
   • Idyllic; sentimentally charming: Describes a scene, description, or atmosphere that is beautifully romantic or poetic in a gentle, loving way.

2. Adverb:

   • Romantically; amorously; lovingly: Describes the manner of doing something, such as looking at or speaking to someone, with clear and tender romantic affection.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Anh ấy viết những bức thư rất tình tứ. (He writes very romantic letters.)
  • Họ chụp một bức ảnh trong khung cảnh tình tứ. (They took a photo in an idyllic setting.)
• Adverb:
  • Đôi trẻ nhìn nhau tình tứ. (The young couple looked at each other lovingly.)

Advanced Usage

• The word is often used to describe the subtle, nuanced, and delicate expression of love or romance, rather than overt passion. It carries a connotation of grace and charm.
• It can describe artistic works (like poetry, music, or film scenes) that evoke a sweet, sentimental romantic feeling.

Variants and Related Words

• Tình tứ (adv): Used to modify a verb, indicating an action is done in a romantic manner.
• Sự tình tứ (n): The quality or state of being romantic/amorous (less common).

Synonyms

• Lãng mạn: romantic.
• Âu yếm: affectionate, tender.
• Dịu dàng: gentle, soft (often in a loving way).
• Ý nhị: subtle, delicate (in meaning or expression).

Related Idioms

• Ăn nói tình tứ: To speak in a romantic/amorous way.
  • Chàng trai ăn nói tình tứ làm cô gái mỉm cười. (The young man spoke romantically, making the girl smile.)