Definition

1. Adjective:
   • At hand, handy: Describes an object that is conveniently located within easy reach, requiring minimal effort to access or use.
   • Conveniently, while you're at it: Describes performing an additional, small action easily because the opportunity presents itself or because one is already engaged in a related activity.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Có cái bút nào tiện tay không? (Is there a pen handy?)
  • Anh tiện tay tắt đèn giúp em. (Could you conveniently turn off the light for me? / Could you turn off the light while you're at it?)
  • Tiện tay cô ấy mua thêm sữa. (She conveniently bought some more milk while she was at it.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is often used adverbially in sentences to modify a verb, describing an action done as a convenient extra.
  • Đang đi siêu thị, tôi tiện tay gửi luôn bưu phẩm. (While going to the supermarket, I conveniently mailed the parcel at the same time.)

Variants and Related Words

• Tiện thể (adv): incidentally, taking the opportunity. This focuses more on the convenient circumstance than physical reach.
  • Tiện thể, anh cho tôi hỏi giờ. (Incidentally, could you tell me the time?)

Synonyms

• Conveniently: In a way that fits well with one's needs or plans.
• Handy: Conveniently near; ready to hand.
• Within reach: Close enough to be touched or grasped easily.

Related Idioms

• Tiện đây: Often used to introduce a related comment or request that comes to mind due to the immediate situation. It translates to "while we're on the subject" or "since we're here."
  • Tiện đây, chúng ta hãy thảo luận vấn đề tiếp theo. (Since we're here, let's discuss the next issue.)

adj

1. at hand, handy