Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Crooked, askew, out of alignment: Describes something that is not straight, leaning to one side, or twisted from its proper or natural position. It often implies a state of being bent or slanted in an unsteady or unsightly manner.
   • Deformed, misshapen: Can describe a physical form, such as a body or limb, that is twisted or contorted.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Cái cây mọc vẹo vọ bên vệ đường. (The tree grows crooked by the roadside.)
  • Bậc thang vẹo vọ rất nguy hiểm. (The crooked step is very dangerous.)
  • Thân hình vẹo vọ. (A deformed / misshapen body.)

Advanced Usage

• The word "vẹo vọ" often carries a stronger, more negative connotation than the simpler "vẹo" (crooked). It suggests a more pronounced, unstable, or unsightly crookedness.

Variants and Related Words

• Vẹo (adj): Crooked, bent. A more common and general term.
  • Cái đinh bị vẹo. (The nail is bent.)
• Cong vẹo (adj): Bent and crooked, twisted. Emphasizes multiple bends or twists.
  • Tấm tôn bị cong vẹo. (The corrugated iron sheet is bent and twisted.)
• Xiêu vẹo (adj): Tottering, leaning precariously, unsteady. Often implies a risk of falling.
  • Bức tường xiêu vẹo. (The wall is tottering.)

Synonyms

• Crooked: Not straight; bent or twisted.
• Askew: Not in a straight or level position.
• Deformed: Distorted in shape; misshapen.
• Lopsided: With one side lower or smaller than the other.

Related Idioms

• Vẹo cả người: (To be bent/twisted all over one's body). Used to describe someone in a very contorted posture, often from laughter or pain.
  • Cười đến vẹo cả người. (To laugh until one is doubled over.)