thẹn thò
Definition
- Adjective:
- Shy, bashful, timid: The state of feeling or appearing slightly ashamed, embarrassed, or self-conscious, often resulting in hesitant or reticent behavior.
- Coy, demure: Showing a modest or reserved manner, often characterized by downcast eyes, a slight blush, or reluctance to speak.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Cô bé thẹn thò đứng sau lưng mẹ. (The little girl stood shyly behind her mother.)
- Anh ấy trả lời một cách thẹn thò khi được khen. (He answered in a bashful manner when complimented.)
- Nụ cười thẹn thò của cô ấy rất dễ thương. (Her coy smile was very charming.)
Advanced Usage
- Used to describe a temporary state of shyness or embarrassment in a specific situation, rather than a permanent personality trait. It often implies a certain innocence or endearing quality.
Variants and Related Words
Thẹn (adj): To be ashamed or embarrassed. A more general and stronger term for shame.
- Cậu ấy cảm thấy thẹn vì hành động của mình. (He felt ashamed of his actions.)
E thẹn (adj): Shy, timid. A variant with similar meaning.
- Một cô gái e thẹn. (A shy girl.)
Synonyms
- Bashful: Reluctant to draw attention to oneself.
- Coy: Pretending shyness or modesty to be alluring.
- Timid: Showing a lack of courage or confidence.
- Demure: Reserved, modest, and shy.
Related Idioms
Thẹn thùng: To be shy, to blush. Often used interchangeably with "thẹn thò" but can imply a slightly more flustered state.
- Cô dâu trông thật thẹn thùng. (The bride looked very shy.)
Mặt đỏ như gà chọi: (Idiom: Face as red as a fighting cock's) To be extremely embarrassed or blush deeply. This is a stronger, more vivid expression than "thẹn thò."
- Nghe nói vậy, cô ấy mặt đỏ như gà chọi. (Hearing that, her face turned as red as a beet.)