từ từ
Definition
- Adverb:
- Slowly; gradually; at a slow pace: Indicates an action performed without hurry or speed, emphasizing a gentle, measured progression.
- Little by little; bit by bit: Describes a process that happens in small, incremental stages over time.
Usage Examples
- Adverb:
- Bạn hãy đi từ từ. (Please walk slowly.)
- Nước chảy từ từ vào bình. (The water flows gradually into the vase.)
- Cô ấy từ từ mở mắt ra. (She opened her eyes slowly.)
Advanced Usage
- Used to give gentle advice or instructions, often to encourage caution or patience.
- Làm từ từ thôi, đừng vội. (Do it slowly, don't rush.)
- Can describe the calming of emotions or a situation.
- Mọi chuyện rồi sẽ từ từ ổn thôi. (Everything will gradually be okay.)
Variants and Related Words
- Chậm rãi (adv): Leisurely, in a slow and relaxed manner.
- Ông ấy nói chuyện rất chậm rãi. (He speaks very leisurely.)
- Thong thả (adv): Unhurriedly, taking one's time.
- Anh ấy thong thả dạo bộ. (He took an unhurried stroll.)
Synonyms
- Slowly: At a low speed.
- Gradually: In a gradual way; step by step.
- Leisurely: In an unhurried or relaxed manner.
Related Idioms and Phrases
- Từ từ rồi sẽ tới: Literally "Slowly, then you will arrive." Equivalent to "Slow and steady wins the race" or "Good things come to those who wait." Encourages patience.
- Đừng nóng vội, từ từ rồi sẽ tới. (Don't be impatient, slow and steady wins the race.)
