Definition

1. Adverb:
   • In the extremely unlikely event that; if by any remote chance; if the one-in-ten-thousand chance occurs. Used to introduce a hypothetical scenario that is considered highly improbable or a last-resort possibility.

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • Vạn nhất trời mưa, chúng ta sẽ hoãn chuyến đi. (In the extremely unlikely event it rains, we will postpone the trip.)
  • Hãy cất số điện thoại này, vạn nhất bạn cần giúp đỡ. (Keep this phone number, if by any remote chance you need help.)
  • Vạn nhất anh ấy không đồng ý thì sao? (What if, against all odds, he doesn't agree?)

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in contingency planning or warning about worst-case scenarios. It carries a stronger sense of improbability than simple conditional words like "nếu" (if).
• It can be used at the beginning of a clause or sentence to set up the hypothetical condition.

Variants and Related Words

• Phòng vạn nhất (v): To prepare for a remote contingency.
  • Chúng ta nên có kế hoạch dự phòng để phòng vạn nhất. (We should have a backup plan to prepare for any remote contingency.)

Synonyms

• In case: Providing for a possibility.
• If by any chance: Introducing a slight possibility.
• Lest: To avoid the risk of (more formal/literary).

Related Idioms

• Vạn bất đắc dĩ: As an absolute last resort; only when every other option is exhausted.
  • Phương án này chỉ dùng trong tình huống vạn bất đắc dĩ. (This option is only for use as an absolute last resort.)