tình tứ
Definition
Adjective:
- Romantic; amorous; gallant: Describes words, actions, or behavior that express tender, loving, or affectionate feelings, often in a charming, delicate, or slightly flirtatious manner.
- Idyllic; sentimentally charming: Describes a scene, description, or atmosphere that is beautifully romantic or poetic in a gentle, loving way.
Adverb:
- Romantically; amorously; lovingly: Describes the manner of doing something, such as looking at or speaking to someone, with clear and tender romantic affection.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Anh ấy viết những bức thư rất tình tứ. (He writes very romantic letters.)
- Họ chụp một bức ảnh trong khung cảnh tình tứ. (They took a photo in an idyllic setting.)
- Adverb:
- Đôi trẻ nhìn nhau tình tứ. (The young couple looked at each other lovingly.)
Advanced Usage
- The word is often used to describe the subtle, nuanced, and delicate expression of love or romance, rather than overt passion. It carries a connotation of grace and charm.
- It can describe artistic works (like poetry, music, or film scenes) that evoke a sweet, sentimental romantic feeling.
Variants and Related Words
- Tình tứ (adv): Used to modify a verb, indicating an action is done in a romantic manner.
- Sự tình tứ (n): The quality or state of being romantic/amorous (less common).
Synonyms
- Lãng mạn: romantic.
- Âu yếm: affectionate, tender.
- Dịu dàng: gentle, soft (often in a loving way).
- Ý nhị: subtle, delicate (in meaning or expression).
Related Idioms
- Ăn nói tình tứ: To speak in a romantic/amorous way.
- Chàng trai ăn nói tình tứ làm cô gái mỉm cười. (The young man spoke romantically, making the girl smile.)