trộm nghe
Definition
- Adverb (used as a sentence modifier):
- To have heard it said / To have overheard: Used to introduce a statement that the speaker has heard from others, often indirectly or through rumor. It conveys that the information is not from direct, personal knowledge but is something the speaker has come to hear about. It often carries a humble or cautious tone, softening the assertion of the information.
Usage Examples
- Adverb:
- Trộm nghe anh sắp chuyển công tác. (I have heard it said that you are about to transfer to a new post.)
- Trộm nghe công ty ấy đang gặp khó khăn. (It has come to my ears that that company is facing difficulties.)
- Trộm nghe thơm nức hương lân. (I have overheard [of your] reputation, fragrant and renowned among peers.)
Advanced Usage
- This term is formal and literary, often found in classical literature, formal writing, or polite, indirect speech. It functions similarly to phrases like "word has it" or "rumor has it" but with a more respectful connotation.
Variants and Related Words
- Nghe đồn (v): to hear a rumor. This is a more common and colloquial equivalent.
- Tôi nghe đồn là trường học sẽ đóng cửa. (I heard a rumor that the school will close.)
- Nghe nói (v): to hear (people) say.
- Nghe nói cô ấy đã về nước. (I heard she has returned to the country.)
Synonyms
- It is said: Used to report general hearsay.
- Rumor has it: Indicates information is circulating unofficially.
- I have heard tell: A formal way to introduce second-hand information.
Related Idioms
- Trộm nghĩ: To venture a thought (humbly expressing an opinion).
- Trộm nghĩ cách làm này hiệu quả hơn. (I humbly think this method is more effective.)
- Trộm thấy: To have privately observed.
- Trộm thấy sự việc có nhiều điểm đáng ngờ. (I have privately observed that the matter has many suspicious points.)