Definition

1. Adverb phrase (Cụm trạng từ):
   • Dare not, would not dare: A polite and humble expression used to deny or refuse a suggestion, request, or compliment by indicating one does not have the audacity, capability, or right to do something. It conveys modesty, deference, or a sense of being unworthy.

Usage Examples

• Adverb phrase:
  • Anh khen quá lời, tôi đâu dám nhận. (You flatter me too much, I dare not accept.)
  • Mời anh ngồi ghế trên ạ, tôi đâu dám. (Please, you take the seat of honor, I would not dare.)
  • Làm sao tôi đâu dám phê bình sếp. (How could I possibly dare to criticize the boss.)

Advanced Usage

• "Đâu dám đâu": A slightly more emphatic or conversational form, often used for stronger denial or humility.
  • A: Em giỏi thật đấy! B: Dạ, đâu dám đâu ạ. (A: You're really skilled! B: Oh, I really wouldn't dare [to claim that].)
• Implied meaning in responses: Often, "đâu dám" can stand alone as a complete, polite response to a compliment or an offer.
  • A: Mời cô ăn trước đi ạ. B: Đâu dám. (A: Please, you eat first. B: I couldn't possibly.)

Variants and Related Words

• Không dám (không + dám): The more direct and neutral translation for "dare not". "Đâu dám" is more idiomatic and carries a stronger nuance of polite refusal or humility.
  • Tôi không dám đi một mình. (I don't dare to go alone.) [Neutral statement of fear]
  • A: Chị hát đi ạ! B: Không dám/ Đâu dám. (A: Please sing! B: I wouldn't dare.) [Polite refusal]
• Đâu có dám: A variant that adds slight emphasis, similar to "how could I possibly dare".
  • Tôi đâu có dám trách anh. (I certainly wouldn't dare to blame you.)

Synonyms

• Đâu có phải: (It's) not that... A phrase used for humble denial, but less focused on "daring" and more on correcting a mistaken assumption.
  • Tôi đâu có phải người tài giỏi gì. (I'm not some talented person.)
• Sao dám: How dare... Used in questions to express shock or reprimand, not for polite refusal.
  • Sao dám nói chuyện với mẹ như vậy? (How dare you speak to your mother like that?)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Đâu dám..." as a set polite formula: This phrase is a key component of polite Vietnamese speech, especially when deferring to elders, superiors, or guests. It softens refusals and denies compliments gracefully.
  • A: Chắc anh phải dạy tôi vài chiêu. B: Đâu dám nói chuyện "dạy" ở đây. (A: You must teach me a few tricks. B: I wouldn't dare to talk about "teaching" here.)

1. Dare not
   • Đâu dám làm chuyện như vậy
     Not to dare to do such a thing