Definition

Verb: - To ogle; to make eyes (at): The act of looking at someone with amorous or flirtatious intent, often through prolonged, meaningful glances. It describes a non-verbal, visual expression of romantic or sexual interest.

Usage

This verb is used to describe the specific action of exchanging flirtatious looks. It typically involves two people and implies a mutual, silent communication of attraction. - It is often used in the structure "đưa tình với (ai)" (to make eyes at someone). - The subject is usually a person ("cô ấy", "anh ấy", "họ"). - It describes a deliberate, expressive look, not a casual glance.

Usage Examples

• (She and the guy sitting opposite silently made eyes at each other throughout the party.)
• (Don't ogle strangers like that; it doesn't look good.)
• (In old movies, characters often made eyes at each other instead of speaking words of love.)

Advanced Usage / Nuances

• The term carries a somewhat playful, romantic, or sometimes slightly old-fashioned connotation. It is more about expressing nascent interest or flirtation than a serious declaration.
• It can sometimes imply a secretive or discreet exchange of looks, especially in a social setting where open affection might be inappropriate.
• In a negative context, if the look is unwanted or overly persistent from one side, the English "to ogle" is a more accurate translation than the mutual "to make eyes."

Variants and Related Words

• Liếc mắt đưa tình: A common phrase combining "liếc mắt" (to glance sideways) with "đưa tình," emphasizing a sly or coquettish glance. (She shot him a flirtatious glance.)
• Ánh mắt đưa tình: A noun phrase meaning "a flirtatious glance" or "a come-hither look." (He couldn't forget her flirtatious look.)

Synonyms

• Tán tỉnh (bằng mắt): To flirt (with the eyes). This is a broader term for flirting, which can include verbal communication, while "đưa tình" is specifically visual.
• Nhìn một cách tình tứ: To look at someone amorously. A more descriptive phrase.

Related Idioms / Expressions

• Đưa tình gửi ý: An extended idiom meaning "to send flirtatious signals and convey intentions." It emphasizes the communication of feelings through looks and subtle hints. (They haven't said anything to each other, only exchanging flirtatious signals back and forth.)

verb

1. to ogle; to make eyes (at)