Definition

Verb: - To have an affair: To engage in a secret or illicit romantic or sexual relationship, typically when one or both parties are already committed to someone else. This word carries a strong connotation of impropriety and secrecy.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Anh ta bị phát hiện đang tằng tịu với đồng nghiệp. (He was discovered having an affair with a colleague.)
  • Hai người đó đã tằng tịu với nhau được một thời gian trước khi bị lộ. (Those two had been having an affair for a while before it was exposed.)

Advanced Usage

• The word tằng tịu is almost exclusively used in a negative, judgmental context to describe unethical or socially condemned relationships. It implies a sense of sneaking around and moral transgression.
• It is often used in gossip, scandals, or moral criticisms.

Variants and Related Words

• Ngoại tình (noun/adjective): Adultery; adulterous. This is a more formal or legal term for the act of being unfaithful in a marriage.
• Quan hệ bất chính (noun phrase): Illicit relationship. A more descriptive, formal phrase.

Synonyms

• Có quan hệ bất chính: To have an improper/illicit relationship.
• Ngoại tình: To commit adultery.

Notes on Meaning

• tằng tịu specifically refers to the act of conducting the secret relationship. It is not used to describe the state of being in love or a public, legitimate relationship.
• The word inherently suggests the relationship is wrong or hidden, so it is rarely, if ever, used in a neutral or positive sense.

verb

1. to have an affair