Definition

1. Verb:
   • To slash or gash (open): To cut or wound something, causing a long, deep, and often gaping tear or incision. This action typically results in a severe, lengthwise opening.
   • To split or cleave lengthwise: To cause something to separate or tear apart along its length, creating a long opening.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Lưỡi dao sắc lạnh xể một đường dài trên tấm vải. (The cold, sharp blade slashed a long line in the fabric.)
  • Vết thương xể toạc ra, trông rất nguy hiểm. (The wound was gashed open, looking very dangerous.)
  • Tia chớp như muốn xể đôi bầu trời. (The lightning seemed to want to cleave the sky in two.)

Advanced Usage

• This verb is often used to describe violent, forceful cutting actions that result in significant damage or a dramatic opening. It is more intense than simple cutting () and implies a resulting state of being torn open.

Variants and Related Words

• Xẻ (v): To split, to saw, or to cut open (often for a purpose, like cutting wood or dissecting). While related, often implies a more controlled or purposeful splitting, whereas emphasizes a violent, damaging tear.
  • Người thợ xẻ một khúc gỗ. (The worker saws a log.)

Synonyms

• To gash: To make a long, deep cut.
• To slash: To cut with a violent sweeping motion.
• To cleave: To split or sever.
• To rip open: To tear apart forcefully.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Chém xể vai: To slash someone's shoulder open (a phrase from classical literature or descriptions of combat).
  • Tên cướp chém xể vai nạn nhân. (The robber slashed the victim's shoulder open.)