Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Shabby, threadbare, worn-out: Describes objects, especially clothing or fabric, that are in a poor condition due to extensive use, age, or neglect. They appear frayed, faded, or dilapidated.
   • Sloppy, untidy: Can describe a general appearance or state of disrepair that is messy and uncared for.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Anh ta mặc bộ quần áo xạc xài. (He is wearing a set of shabby clothes.)
  • Căn phòng trọ trông thật xạc xài và bụi bặm. (The rented room looks very shabby and dusty.)
  • Chiếc ghế sofa cũ đã trở nên xạc xài. (The old sofa has become worn-out.)

Advanced Usage

• The word often carries a connotation of neglect or poverty, implying that the item has not been maintained or replaced due to a lack of resources or care.
• It can be used metaphorically to describe something non-physical that is in a poor or deteriorated state, though this is less common.
  • Kế hoạch của họ nghe có vẻ xạc xài và thiếu chuẩn bị. (Their plan sounds shabby and unprepared.)

Variants and Related Words

• Xờ xạc (adj): Frayed, tattered; often used for things like hair, fabric edges, or plants that are messy and unkempt.
  • Mái tóc xờ xạc của cậu bé. (The boy's unkempt hair.)

Synonyms

• Shabby: Worn and faded from use.
• Threadbare: (Of fabric) so thin and worn that the threads are visible.
• Dilapidated: In a state of disrepair or ruin.
• Tattered: Torn and ragged.
• Scruffy: Untidy and in poor condition.

Related Idioms

• Ăn mặc xạc xài: To be dressed shabbily.
  • Dù có tiền nhưng ông ấy vẫn thích ăn mặc xạc xài. (Even though he has money, he still prefers to dress shabbily.)