Definition

1. Noun:
   • Offence, fault: "tội vạ" refers to a wrongdoing, a misdeed, or a fault. It generally denotes a sin, a transgression, or a blameworthy act.
   • Trouble, bother (in negative or rhetorical contexts): Often used in negative constructions or rhetorical questions to imply that something is not worth the trouble or is of no consequence.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Anh ấy đã phạm phải tội vạ gì? (What offence/fault did he commit?)
  • Chuyện nhỏ thế này, có tội vạ gì đâu mà phải lo. (Such a small matter, it's no trouble at all, no need to worry.)
  • Tôi chẳng làm gì nên tội vạ cả. (I haven't done anything wrong.)

Advanced Usage

• "tội vạ gì" / "có tội vạ gì đâu": A common rhetorical phrase meaning "What's the harm?" or "It's no trouble/big deal." It is used to downplay the significance of an action or to ask why one should bother.
  • Đến muộn một chút, tội vạ gì? (Being a little late, what's the big deal?)
  • Cứ nói đi, có tội vạ gì đâu. (Just say it, it's no trouble at all.)

Variants and Related Words

• Tội (noun): Sin, crime, offence. A more common and direct synonym.
  • phạm tội (to commit a crime)
• Lỗi (noun): Mistake, error, fault. Often refers to a less severe fault or a simple error.
  • mắc lỗi (to make a mistake)
• Tội lỗi (noun): Sin, guilt. A more formal or weighty term for sinfulness or guilt.

Synonyms

• Lỗi lầm: Mistake, error.
• Tội lỗi: Sin, guilt.
• Sai phạm: Violation, infraction (more formal).

Related Phrases

• Không đáng tội vạ: Not worth the trouble.
  • Việc ấy nhỏ xíu, không đáng tội vạ phải cãi nhau. (That matter is tiny, not worth the trouble of arguing.)
• Mắc tội vạ (với ai): To get into trouble (with someone).
  • Cẩn thận kẻo mắc tội vạ với sếp. (Be careful or you'll get into trouble with the boss.)

noun

1. offence, fault