Definition

1. Verb (Informal):
   • To relax / to unwind / to let off steam: The primary meaning of "xả hơi" is to take a break from work, study, or stress in order to rest and recover one's energy. It implies a deliberate release of tension.
   • To take a breather / to take a respite: It refers to pausing an ongoing, often demanding, activity for a short period to recuperate.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Cuối tuần này chúng tôi sẽ đi biển để xả hơi. (This weekend we will go to the beach to unwind.)
  • Sau kỳ thi căng thẳng, tôi cần một ngày để xả hơi. (After the stressful exam period, I need a day to take a breather.)
  • Anh ấy chơi bóng rổ để xả hơi sau giờ làm. (He plays basketball to let off steam after work.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is inherently informal and colloquial. It is commonly used in spoken language and casual writing.
• It often carries a connotation of deserved relief after a period of hard work or pressure.

Variants and Related Words

• Nghỉ ngơi (v): to rest. This is a more general and neutral term for taking a break.
• Thư giãn (v): to relax. This focuses more on the state of relaxation itself.
• Giải trí (v): to entertain oneself, to engage in recreation.

Synonyms

• Unwind: to relax and release tension.
• Take a break: to stop an activity for a short time.
• Let off steam: to release pent-up energy or emotion.
• Recharge (one's batteries): to rest in order to regain energy.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Xả stress": a very similar and commonly used phrase meaning specifically "to relieve stress."
  • Tôi nghe nhạc để xả stress. (I listen to music to relieve stress.)