tụi
Definition
Collective noun:
- A group, a bunch, a gang: Used to refer to a collection of people, often of a similar type, age, or social category. It is a common, colloquial term and can be neutral or slightly derogatory depending on context.
- A set, a lot: Can refer to a group of inanimate objects, though this usage is less common.
Pronoun (colloquial):
- We, us, you (plural), they, them: Used as a first, second, or third person plural pronoun, typically in informal speech. It often implies familiarity or a casual relationship between the speaker and the group being referred to.
Usage Examples
- Collective noun:
- Tụi trẻ con đang chơi trong công viên. (The bunch of kids are playing in the park.)
- Cảnh sát bắt giữ tụi buôn lậu. (The police arrested the gang of smugglers.)
- Pronoun:
- Tụi tôi sẽ đi sớm. (We will leave early.)
- Tụi mày có muốn đi không? (Do you guys want to go?)
- Tụi nó vừa mới về. (They just got home.)
Advanced Usage
- The word "tụi" is almost always followed by another pronoun or noun to specify the group. It is rarely used alone.
- tụi tôi / tao (we/us - informal)
- tụi mày / bạn (you all - informal)
- tụi nó / họ (they/them)
- tụi con nít (the kids)
- tụi lưu manh (the hooligans)
Variants and Related Words
- Bọn: A very close synonym, often interchangeable with "tụi". Both are collective nouns and informal plural pronouns.
- Bọn tôi cũng thích. (We like it too.)
Synonyms
- Group: a number of people or things.
- Bunch: a group (informal).
- Gang: a group, especially one involved in dubious activities.
- We/They: first or third person plural pronouns (informal).
Notes on Tone and Context
- "Tụi" is informal and is used in everyday conversation. It is not typically used in formal writing or speeches.
- When used to refer to people (tụi nó, tụi mày), it can sound very casual and familiar. Using it with superiors or strangers may be considered impolite.
- When labeling a group (tụi trộm cắp), it often carries a negative or dismissive connotation, similar to "that bunch of thieves."