Definition

1. Verb (colloquial):

   • To claim or bag something selfishly: To quickly and often selfishly claim something for oneself before others can, especially in an informal or competitive context.
   • To call dibs: To verbally assert a claim to an object, seat, or opportunity.

2. Noun (colloquial, short form):

   • Toilet: A shortened, informal form of "chuồng xí" or "nhà xí," meaning an outhouse or latrine. This usage is now considered rustic or old-fashioned.

Usage Examples

• Verb:

  • Tôi xí chỗ ngồi trước nhé! (I'm calling dibs on this seat first!)
  • Đứa nào xí phần bánh to thế? (Who selfishly bagged the big piece of cake?)

• Noun:

  • Nhà quê ngày xưa thường có chuồng xí ở sau vườn. (In the old countryside, there was often an outhouse in the back garden.)

Advanced Usage

• The verb "xí" is almost exclusively used in casual, spoken Vietnamese among friends or family. It describes a playful or selfish pre-emption.
• As a noun, "xí" is a truncation. Modern Vietnamese more commonly uses "nhà vệ sinh" (restroom) or "toilet." Using "xí" alone for toilet sounds very informal or dated.

Variants and Related Words

• Chuồng xí / Nhà xí (n): Outhouse, latrine.
• Xí phần (v phrase): To claim a share or portion for oneself.
• Xí chỗ (v phrase): To claim a spot or seat for oneself.

Synonyms

• Claim: To state one's right to something.
• Bag (informal): To secure something for oneself.
• Call dibs (informal): To make a verbal claim.

Related Idioms

• Ăn trước xí sau: A playful idiom meaning to start eating or take something first and claim it later. It highlights a selfish or hasty action.
  • Đừng có kiểu ăn trước xí sau thế! (Don't be so grabby—taking first and claiming later!)