xí
Definition
Verb (colloquial):
- To claim or bag something selfishly: To quickly and often selfishly claim something for oneself before others can, especially in an informal or competitive context.
- To call dibs: To verbally assert a claim to an object, seat, or opportunity.
Noun (colloquial, short form):
- Toilet: A shortened, informal form of "chuồng xí" or "nhà xí," meaning an outhouse or latrine. This usage is now considered rustic or old-fashioned.
Usage Examples
Verb:
- Tôi xí chỗ ngồi trước nhé! (I'm calling dibs on this seat first!)
- Đứa nào xí phần bánh to thế? (Who selfishly bagged the big piece of cake?)
Noun:
- Nhà quê ngày xưa thường có chuồng xí ở sau vườn. (In the old countryside, there was often an outhouse in the back garden.)
Advanced Usage
- The verb "xí" is almost exclusively used in casual, spoken Vietnamese among friends or family. It describes a playful or selfish pre-emption.
- As a noun, "xí" is a truncation. Modern Vietnamese more commonly uses "nhà vệ sinh" (restroom) or "toilet." Using "xí" alone for toilet sounds very informal or dated.
Variants and Related Words
- Chuồng xí / Nhà xí (n): Outhouse, latrine.
- Xí phần (v phrase): To claim a share or portion for oneself.
- Xí chỗ (v phrase): To claim a spot or seat for oneself.
Synonyms
- Claim: To state one's right to something.
- Bag (informal): To secure something for oneself.
- Call dibs (informal): To make a verbal claim.
Related Idioms
- Ăn trước xí sau: A playful idiom meaning to start eating or take something first and claim it later. It highlights a selfish or hasty action.
- Đừng có kiểu ăn trước xí sau thế! (Don't be so grabby—taking first and claiming later!)