Definition

1. Verb:
   • To reconsider (in a favorable light): To look again at a situation, decision, or person's case with the intention of showing leniency, granting a favor, or changing a previous negative judgment to a positive one. It implies a request for compassionate re-evaluation.
   • To show special consideration: To take another look with the purpose of giving help, mercy, or an advantage that was not initially granted.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Xin thầy trông lại cho em lần này. (Please, teacher, reconsider for me this time.)
  • Vì hoàn cảnh khó khăn, mong ông chủ trông lại mà gia hạn thêm. (Due to difficult circumstances, I hope the boss will reconsider and grant an extension.)
  • Xin tòa án trông lại cho bị cáo. (We request the court to show leniency to the defendant.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is almost exclusively used in polite, formal, or pleading contexts, often when asking a superior (a boss, teacher, official, or elder) for a favor, forgiveness, or a second chance. It carries a strong connotation of humility from the speaker.

Variants and Related Words

• Xem xét lại (v): to review, to reconsider (more neutral and formal, without the inherent plea for favor).
• Chiếu cố (v): to show consideration, to give patronage (similar in meaning but can be used in broader social contexts).

Synonyms

• Reconsider (with mercy): To think again about a decision, especially with compassion.
• Show leniency: To be less severe in judgment or punishment.
• Grant a favor: To do something kind or helpful.

Related Idioms

• Trông nom: to look after, to take care of.
  • Bà ấy trông nom đứa trẻ cẩn thận. (She looks after the child carefully.)
• Trông chừng: to keep an eye on, to watch over.
  • Anh trông chừng cửa hàng giúp tôi. (Please keep an eye on the store for me.)