Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Perched precariously high: Describes something or someone positioned at a considerable and often unstable height, typically on a narrow or elevated point.
   • Sitting or positioned in a haughty or arrogant manner: Can describe an arrogant, disdainful, or carelessly casual posture, often while seated.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Con mèo nằm vắt vẻo trên cành cây cao. (The cat was perched precariously high on the tree branch.)
  • Cậu bé ngồi vắt vẻo trên thành ghế, trông rất nguy hiểm. (The boy sat perched precariously on the back of the chair, looking very dangerous.)
  • Anh ta ngồi vắt vẻo trên ghế, tỏ vẻ coi thường mọi người. (He sat in a haughty manner on the chair, showing disdain for everyone.)

Advanced Usage

• The word is often used to vividly depict a scene where balance and safety seem tenuous due to height or attitude.
• It can imply a sense of careless confidence or defiance in the face of potential danger or social norms.

Variants and Related Words

• Vắt va vắt vẻo (adj): A reduplicated form that intensifies the meaning, emphasizing an even more unstable, high, or arrogant position.

Synonyms

• Precarious: Not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall or collapse.
• Perched: Situated, often temporarily, in a high or elevated place.
• Haughty: Arrogantly superior and disdainful.

Related Idioms

• While "vắt vẻo" itself is descriptive, it is commonly used in phrases to paint a picture of physical or social precariousness.