từ từ

Anh ấy lái xe từ từ qua khu dân cư.

Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Slowly; gradually; at a slow pace: Indicates an action performed without hurry or speed, emphasizing a gentle, measured progression.
   • Little by little; bit by bit: Describes a process that happens in small, incremental stages over time.

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • Bạn hãy đi từ từ. (Please walk slowly.)
  • Nước chảy từ từ vào bình. (The water flows gradually into the vase.)
  • Cô ấy từ từ mở mắt ra. (She opened her eyes slowly.)

Advanced Usage

• Used to give gentle advice or instructions, often to encourage caution or patience.
  • Làm từ từ thôi, đừng vội. (Do it slowly, don't rush.)
• Can describe the calming of emotions or a situation.
  • Mọi chuyện rồi sẽ từ từ ổn thôi. (Everything will gradually be okay.)

Variants and Related Words

• Chậm rãi (adv): Leisurely, in a slow and relaxed manner.
  • Ông ấy nói chuyện rất chậm rãi. (He speaks very leisurely.)
• Thong thả (adv): Unhurriedly, taking one's time.
  • Anh ấy thong thả dạo bộ. (He took an unhurried stroll.)

Synonyms

• Slowly: At a low speed.
• Gradually: In a gradual way; step by step.
• Leisurely: In an unhurried or relaxed manner.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Từ từ rồi sẽ tới: Literally "Slowly, then you will arrive." Equivalent to "Slow and steady wins the race" or "Good things come to those who wait." Encourages patience.
  • Đừng nóng vội, từ từ rồi sẽ tới. (Don't be impatient, slow and steady wins the race.)