Definition

1. Interjection:
   • An expression of surprise, mild reproach, or sudden realization: "Ô kìa" is an exclamation used to express surprise, to gently point out something unexpected or overlooked, or to show a sudden realization, often with a tone of slight admonishment or wonder.

Usage Examples

• Interjection:
  • Ô kìa, anh chưa đi à! (Oh my, you haven't left yet!)
  • Ô kìa, cái ví của em đây rồi! (Oh look, my wallet is right here!)
  • Ô kìa, sao lại làm thế? (Hey now, why would you do that?)

Advanced Usage

• "Ô kìa" is often used in spoken Vietnamese to draw attention. It can soften a reproach or express affectionate surprise.
  • Ô kìa con, đã bảo là không được rồi mà. (Oh dear child, I already told you that's not allowed.)
• It can be used alone or at the beginning of a sentence to express a reaction.
  • Ô kìa! Ai đã làm cái này? (Well, well! Who did this?)

Variants and Related Words

• Ô hay (interjection): A very close synonym with the same meaning and usage as "ô kìa."
  • Ô hay, hôm nay sao về sớm thế? (Oh? Why are you home so early today?)

Synonyms

• Trời ơi (interjection): Oh my god / Good heavens. (Expresses stronger surprise or shock.)
• Ủa (interjection): Huh? / Oh? (Expresses mild confusion or sudden notice.)

Related Phrases

• Ô kìa xem kìa: Look at that! / Would you look at that! (An extended form for emphasis.)
  • Ô kìa xem kìa, hoa nở đẹp quá! (Oh, look at that! The flowers are blooming so beautifully!)

1. như ô hay