thừa lúc
Definition
- Prepositional phrase / Adverbial phrase:
- To take advantage of the moment when: This phrase describes acting by seizing a specific, often brief, opportunity when circumstances are favorable, typically because someone or something is off-guard, inattentive, or vulnerable.
Usage Examples
- Prepositional phrase:
- Hắn thừa lúc tôi không để ý đã lấy trộm điện thoại. (He took advantage of the moment I wasn't paying attention and stole the phone.)
- Chúng tôi sẽ tấn công thừa lúc địch quân đang ngủ. (We will attack, taking advantage of the moment the enemy troops are sleeping.)
- Cô ấy rời khỏi bữa tiệc thừa lúc mọi người đang nhảy. (She left the party, seizing the moment when everyone was dancing.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase often implies a strategic or opportunistic action, carrying a nuance of exploiting a temporary weakness, gap in attention, or a precise window of time. It is frequently used in narratives describing tactical moves, tricks, or discreet actions.
Synonyms
- To seize the opportunity when: to act when a chance presents itself.
- To catch (someone) off guard: to act when someone is not prepared.
- To exploit a moment of: to take advantage of a specific short period.
Related Idioms and Phrases
- Thừa cơ: This is a very close synonym, also meaning to take advantage of an opportunity or a favorable situation.
- Nó thừa cơ chạy trốn. (It took the opportunity to escape.)