đánh bể
Definition
- Verb:
- To break (by hitting or striking): The primary meaning of "đánh bể" is to cause something to break into pieces, typically through an action involving impact, force, or an accident. It implies the object was shattered or cracked.
- To smash: A more forceful synonym, emphasizing the action of striking something so that it breaks.
Usage Examples
- Verb:
- Đứa bé làm rơi và đánh bể cái ly. (The child dropped and broke the glass.)
- Anh ấy vô tình đánh bể chiếc bình cổ. (He accidentally smashed the antique vase.)
- Đừng chơi bóng trong nhà, kẻo đánh bể cửa sổ. (Don't play ball inside, or you'll break the window.)
Advanced Usage
- The word "đánh bể" often carries a connotation of regret or accident, as it frequently describes breaking something valuable or fragile. It is more specific than the general word for break ("làm vỡ" or "làm bể") because it incorporates the means ("đánh" - to hit/strike).
Variants and Related Words
Đánh vỡ (v): A direct synonym meaning to break or smash by hitting. The usage is nearly identical to "đánh bể."
- Cô ấy đánh vỡ gương. (She broke the mirror.)
Làm bể (v): To break. This is a more general term that does not specify the action of hitting.
- Ai đã làm bể cái đĩa này? (Who broke this plate?)
Làm vỡ (v): To break. Another general synonym.
- Tôi xin lỗi vì đã làm vỡ nó. (I'm sorry for breaking it.)
Synonyms
- Smash: To break something violently into pieces.
- Shatter: To break suddenly into many small pieces.
- Break: The general term for causing something to separate into pieces.
Notes on Usage
- "Đánh bể" is commonly used in Southern Vietnamese dialects. In Northern Vietnamese, "đánh vỡ" is more prevalent. Both are perfectly understood nationwide.
- This verb is typically used with objects that are brittle or fragile, such as glass, ceramics, dishes, or windows. It is less commonly used for flexible or durable items.