xoải
Definition
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.
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.)