to xụ
Definition
- Adjective:
- Droopy, sagging, or hanging down limply: Describes something that is not taut or upright, often due to lack of support, elasticity, or vitality. It can refer to physical objects like fabric, plants, or facial features.
- Dejected, downcast, or dispirited: Describes a person's mood, expression, or demeanor that appears sad, discouraged, or lacking energy.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Cành cây to xụ sau trận bão. (The tree branch is drooping after the storm.)
- Mặt nó to xụ khi nghe tin không đỗ đại học. (His face fell when he heard the news that he didn't get into university.)
- Tấm rèm cũ đã to xụ xuống. (The old curtain has sagged down.)
Advanced Usage
- The word "to xụ" is primarily used in spoken, colloquial Northern Vietnamese. It is less common in formal writing.
- It often carries a connotation of something losing its intended form or vigor, resulting in a limp, untidy, or sad appearance.
Variants and Related Words
- To xù (adj): This is a direct variant with the same meaning as "to xụ". The difference is often just in regional or personal pronunciation preference.
- Lông con mèo bị ướt to xù lên. (The cat's fur is all matted and ruffled because it's wet.)
Synonyms
- Droopy: Hanging down limply.
- Sagging: Sinking downward under weight or pressure.
- Dejected: Sad and depressed in demeanor.
- Downcast: (Of eyes) looking downward, typically due to sadness or shame.
Related Idioms
- Mặt to xụ: A common phrase meaning "a long face" or "a dejected face."
- Đừng có mặt to xụ như vậy, mọi chuyện sẽ ổn thôi. (Don't make such a long face; everything will be fine.)