Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To evade / to dodge (a question or topic): The primary meaning of "trống lảng" is to intentionally avoid giving a direct answer or to steer a conversation away from a specific, often uncomfortable, subject. It implies a deliberate act of deflection.
   • To beat around the bush: It describes the action of speaking vaguely or off-topic to avoid addressing the core issue.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Khi được hỏi về vụ bê bối, ông ấy chỉ trống lảng. (When asked about the scandal, he just evaded the question.)
  • Đừng có trống lảng, hãy trả lời thẳng vào vấn đề đi. (Stop beating around the bush; answer the question directly.)
  • Cô ấy trống lảng bằng cách chuyển sang chủ đề khác. (She dodged the issue by changing to a different topic.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting a lack of honesty or willingness to confront a difficult matter. It is commonly used in contexts involving interviews, debates, or personal conversations where accountability is expected.

Variants and Related Words

• Lảng tránh (v): to avoid, to shirk. This is a close synonym with a similar meaning of evading responsibility or an unpleasant topic.
  • Anh ta luôn lảng tránh những câu hỏi khó. (He always avoids difficult questions.)

Synonyms

• To evade: To escape or avoid, especially by cleverness or trickery.
• To dodge: To avoid something by a quick shift of position or topic.
• To sidestep: To avoid dealing with something difficult.
• To beat around the bush: To avoid coming to the point in a conversation.

Related Idioms

• Đánh trống lảng: This is the full, classic form of the idiom. It literally means "to beat the drum evasively" and is used identically to "trống lảng."
  • Thay vì thừa nhận, hắn đánh trống lảng qua chuyện khác. (Instead of admitting it, he beat around the bush about other things.)