thấy kinh
Definition
- Verb phrase (colloquial, euphemistic):
- To get one's period / to menstruate: The primary meaning is a common, informal way for a woman to say she has begun her menstrual cycle. It is a euphemistic expression.
- To see one's period: A literal translation of the phrase, used to indicate the onset of menstruation.
Usage Examples
- Verb phrase:
- Cô ấy nói cô ấy thấy kinh rồi. (She said she got her period.)
- Tôi không cảm thấy khỏe, có lẽ tôi sắp thấy kinh. (I don't feel well, maybe I'm about to get my period.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase is used almost exclusively in spoken, informal contexts. In more formal or medical situations, terms like "có kinh nguyệt" or "hành kinh" are preferred.
Variants and Related Words
Có kinh (nguyệt) (v): to menstruate (more standard term).
- Chu kỳ có kinh thường kéo dài 28 ngày. (The menstrual cycle usually lasts 28 days.)
Đến tháng (v, idiomatic): literally "to have the month arrive"; a very common synonym for "thấy kinh."
- Chị ấy đang đến tháng nên dễ cáu. (She is on her period so she's irritable.)
Synonyms
- To menstruate: to undergo the monthly discharge of blood and mucosal tissue.
- To have a period: the common English colloquial equivalent.
Notes on Usage
- "Thấy kinh" and its synonym "thấy tháng" (or "đến tháng") are deeply ingrained euphemisms. They are not considered vulgar but are informal.
- The phrase is specific to female biology and should be used with appropriate context and sensitivity.