Definition

1. Verb:
   • To feel dizzy / to have a dizzy spell: The primary meaning of "xâm mặt" is to experience a sudden, brief feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness, often accompanied by a pale or changed complexion.
   • To feel faint: It can describe the sensation just before one might faint or lose consciousness.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Tôi đứng dậy đột ngột và thấy xâm mặt. (I stood up suddenly and felt dizzy.)
  • Cô ấy xâm mặt, tôi nghĩ cô ấy cần ngồi xuống. (She felt faint; I think she needs to sit down.)
  • Anh ấy kêu xâm mặt mỗi khi đói bụng. (He complains of feeling dizzy whenever he is hungry.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used to describe a specific, transient physical state rather than a chronic condition. It is commonly associated with immediate causes like low blood pressure, hunger, fatigue, or sudden movement.

Variants and Related Words

• Choáng váng (v): to feel dizzy, to feel giddy. This is a more common and general synonym for dizziness.
  • Cơn choáng váng khiến tôi phải vịn vào tường. (The dizzy spell made me lean against the wall.)

Synonyms

• To feel dizzy: The most direct translation.
• To feel lightheaded: Emphasizes a feeling of unsteadiness.
• To feel faint: Suggests a proximity to losing consciousness.

Related Idioms

• While "xâm mặt" itself is not typically part of a longer idiom, the sensation it describes is often referenced in expressions about poor health or sudden weakness.
  • Đứng không vững: to be unable to stand steadily (often due to dizziness or weakness).

    • Nghe tin đó, cô ấy đứng không vững. (Hearing that news, she was unsteady on her feet.)