Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To seize the opportunity / to take advantage of the chance: The phrase "thừa dịp" means to actively use a favorable circumstance or moment to achieve a specific purpose. It implies acting opportunistically when a suitable opening arises.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Hắn thừa dịp chủ nhà đi vắng để đột nhập. (He took advantage of the homeowner's absence to break in.)
  • Công ty chúng tôi thừa dịp thị trường bùng nổ để mở rộng. (Our company seized the opportunity of the market boom to expand.)
  • Cô ấy thừa dịp anh ta đang vui vẻ để xin tăng lương. (She seized the moment while he was in a good mood to ask for a raise.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often carries a slightly opportunistic or strategic connotation, suggesting the action might not have been possible without that specific chance. It is frequently used in narratives describing clever or cunning actions.

Synonyms

• To seize the opportunity: To grab a favorable moment.
• To take advantage of the chance: To use a circumstance for benefit.
• To capitalize on the occasion: To turn a situation to one's advantage.

Related Idioms

• "Thừa nước đục thả câu": This is a closely related idiom meaning "to fish in troubled waters" or to take advantage of a chaotic or confused situation for personal gain. It shares the core idea of "thừa dịp" but emphasizes exploiting disorder.
  • Bọn đầu cơ thừa nước đục thả câu, đẩy giá cả lên cao. (Speculators fished in troubled waters, driving prices up.)