Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Bandy-legged; bowlegged: Describes a person's legs that curve outward at the knees, so that the knees are apart when the feet are together. This is the primary and most common meaning.
   • Knock-kneed (less common interpretation): In some descriptions, it can refer to legs that curve inward at the knees, causing the knees to touch when the feet are apart. The context usually clarifies the specific condition.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Đứa bé mới tập đi nên chân hơi vòng kiềng. (The toddler is just learning to walk, so his legs are a bit bowlegged.)
  • Anh ấy có dáng đi vòng kiềng rất dễ nhận ra. (He has a very recognizable bowlegged walk.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used descriptively and can be considered informal or colloquial. In formal or medical contexts, terms like "chân cong" (curved legs) or specific medical conditions (e.g., for bowlegs) are preferred.

Variants and Related Words

• Chân vòng kiềng (noun phrase): bowlegs; the condition of having bowlegged legs.
  • Chân vòng kiềng có thể là bẩm sinh. (Bowlegs can be congenital.)

Synonyms

• Bandy-legged: Having legs that curve outward.
• Bowlegged: Having legs that bow outward at the knee.
• Crooked legs (descriptive).

Related Idioms and Expressions

• Đi vòng kiềng: To walk in a bowlegged manner.
  • Vì chân bị thương, ông ấy phải đi vòng kiềng mấy tháng. (Because of his injured leg, he had to walk bowlegged for several months.)

adj

1. bandy