Definition

1. Verb:
   • To confide one's feelings; to pour out one's heart: The primary meaning of "tự tình" is to express one's innermost feelings, thoughts, or sentiments, often in a private, intimate, or heartfelt conversation.
   • To exchange amorous words; to whisper sweet nothings: Specifically, "tự tình" can refer to lovers engaging in tender, romantic conversation or flirtation.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Cô ấy tìm bạn thân để tự tình. (She found a close friend to confide in.)
  • Đôi trai gái ngồi tự tình dưới ánh trăng. (The young couple sat whispering sweet nothings under the moonlight.)
  • Nàng còn cầm lại một hai tự tình. (She still held [him/her] back a moment to pour out her heart.)

Advanced Usage

• As a noun concept: While primarily a verb, the action of "tự tình" can be referred to as an intimate confession or a heart-to-heart talk.
  • Cuộc tự tình của họ kéo dài đến gần sáng. (Their heart-to-heart talk lasted until nearly dawn.)

Variants and Related Words

• Tâm tình (n/v): sentiment; to share feelings. This is a close synonym often used interchangeably.
• Giãi bày (v): to express, to unfold (one's thoughts or feelings). This is a more general term for expressing.

Synonyms

• Confide: to trust someone with personal information.
• Pour out one's heart: to express one's feelings openly and emotionally.
• Flirt: to behave amorously without serious intent (for the romantic sense).

Related Idioms

• Tự tình tự nguyện: This phrase is not a standard idiom with "tự tình." The core word "tự tình" itself carries the idiomatic sense of an intimate emotional exchange.