vênh vênh
Definition
- Adjective:
- Slightly warped or bent: Describes an object that is not perfectly flat or straight, having a minor, often upward, curvature or twist.
- Haughty or arrogant in demeanor: Describes a person's attitude as being proud, aloof, or disdainful, often characterized by holding one's head high.
Usage Examples
- Adjective (Physical State):
- Tấm ván này bị vênh vênh một góc. (This plank is slightly warped at one corner.)
- Adjective (Attitude):
- Cô ấy có thái độ vênh vênh, không thèm chào ai. (She has a haughty attitude and doesn't bother to greet anyone.)
Advanced Usage
- The word is a reduplication of "vênh." The reduplicated form "vênh vênh" often softens the degree, implying a slight or moderate state rather than an extreme one. For physical objects, it means "a little warped." For attitude, it suggests a noticeable but not overwhelming arrogance.
Variants and Related Words
- Vênh (adj): Warped, bent, or arrogant. This is the root word, which can denote a stronger or more definitive state.
- Mặt bàn vênh. (The tabletop is warped.)
- Vênh váo (adj): A more colloquial and expressive variant meaning blatantly arrogant or swaggering.
- Anh ta đi đứng vênh váo. (He walks around with a swagger.)
Synonyms
- Warped: Bent or twisted out of shape.
- Haughty: Arrogantly superior and disdainful.
- Aloof: Not friendly or forthcoming; distant.
Related Idioms
- Vênh mặt lên: To turn one's face up (in pride or disdain).
- Nghe khen, nó vênh mặt lên. (Upon hearing praise, he turned his face up proudly.)
- Mặt vênh như cái mai rùa: A simile meaning "face as upturned as a turtle's shell," used to describe someone with a very haughty expression.