xoay xoáy
Definition
- Verb:
- To spin or whirl rapidly and continuously: Describes a forceful, circular rotating motion, often around a central point, implying intensity and lack of control.
- To be in a state of turmoil or frantic activity: Used figuratively to describe a situation of chaotic busyness, confusion, or mental preoccupation where thoughts or events seem to swirl uncontrollably.
Usage Examples
- Verb:
- Lá khô xoay xoáy trong cơn lốc. (The dry leaves spun violently in the whirlwind.)
- Đầu óc tôi xoay xoáy với trăm nghìn suy nghĩ. (My mind is whirling with countless thoughts.)
- Công việc dồn dập khiến anh ấy xoay xoáy cả ngày. (The piled-up work made him spin around frantically all day.)
Advanced Usage
- The word is a reduplication of "xoáy" (to whirl, to vortex), intensifying its meaning. It often conveys a sense of being trapped in or overwhelmed by the spinning motion or chaotic situation.
Variants and Related Words
- Xoáy (v): to whirl, to swirl, to vortex.
- Nước xoáy xuống cống. (The water swirled down the drain.)
- Xoay (v): to turn, to rotate, to revolve (generally less intense and more controlled than "xoay xoáy").
- Xoay người lại. (Turn around.)
Synonyms
- Whirl: to spin rapidly.
- Swirl: to move in a twisting or spiraling pattern.
- Reel: to feel dizzy and confused (figurative).
Related Idioms
- Đầu óc xoay xoáy: Mind in a whirl; feeling mentally overwhelmed and confused.
- Nghe tin đó, đầu óc cô ấy xoay xoáy. (Hearing that news, her mind was in a whirl.)