Definition

Adverb: Describes a movement that is very quick, nimble, and rhythmic, often in a continuous or repetitive action. It evokes a sense of agility and speed.

Usage

This word is used to describe the manner of a swift and light physical action, typically involving hands, feet, or full-body movement. It emphasizes not just speed but also a certain grace or rhythmic efficiency.

Examples

• (The weaver's hands moved nimbly at the loom.)
• (She went up the stairs briskly.)
• (The boy ran swiftly across the field.)

Advanced Usage

• "thoăn thoắt như cắt": This is a common simile that intensifies the meaning, comparing the quick movement to the swiftness of a bird's flight or a sharp cut. It translates to "as quick as a flash" or "like lightning."
  • Đôi tay người nghệ nhân làm việc thoăn thoắt như cắt. (The artisan's hands worked as quick as lightning.)

Variants and Related Words

• thoắt (adv): A shorter, more literary form with a similar meaning of sudden swiftness. It is often used in compound words or poetic language.
  • thoắt ẩn thoắt hiện (to appear and disappear in a flash)
  • thoắt cái (in an instant)

Synonyms

• nhanh nhẹn (adj/adv): agile, nimble (often describes a person's general characteristic).
• mau lẹ (adj/adv): quick, prompt.
• lẹ làng (adj/adv): brisk, quick.
• nhanh như chớp (idiom): as fast as lightning.

Antonyms

• chậm chạp (adj/adv): slow, sluggish.
• ì ạch (adj/adv): ponderously, heavily.

adv

1. in a flash; as a lighting