Definition

1. Verb:

   • To spread out; to stretch out: To extend or open something, such as limbs or wings, to their full or relaxed width.
   • To lie or sit sprawled: To adopt a relaxed, stretched-out, and often careless posture while lying or sitting.

2. Adjective:

   • Sprawling; spread-eagled: Describing a position or posture that is fully extended and relaxed, often taking up space.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Chim xoải cánh. (The bird spreads its wings.)
  • Anh ấy xoải chân ngồi trên ghế. (He sits with his legs stretched out on the chair.)
• Adjective:
  • Nó nằm xoải người trên sàn. (He lies sprawled on the floor.)

Advanced Usage

• The word often conveys a sense of casual, unselfconscious relaxation or physical release. It is frequently used to describe a comfortable, open posture after exertion or in a state of rest.

Variants and Related Words

• Xoài ra (v): A more colloquial form meaning to sprawl or spread out limply.
  • Mệt quá, tôi chỉ muốn xoài ra ghế. (I'm so tired, I just want to sprawl on the chair.)

Synonyms

• To spread out: To open or extend over an area.
• To sprawl: To sit, lie, or fall with one's limbs spread out in a relaxed or ungainly way.
• To stretch out: To extend one's body or limbs.

Related Idioms

• Xoải cánh: Literally "to spread wings"; can metaphorically imply preparing to show off one's abilities or to take on a challenge.
  • Cậu ấy đang xoải cánh cho dự án mới. (He's spreading his wings for the new project.)