Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To lie down (to rest or sleep): "đặt lưng" is an idiomatic expression meaning to lie down, typically with the intention of resting or going to sleep. It emphasizes the action of placing one's back onto a surface like a bed or mat.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Anh ấy vừa đặt lưng xuống giường thì điện thoại reo. (He had just lain down on the bed when the phone rang.)
  • Tôi mệt quá, chỉ muốn về nhà và đặt lưng. (I'm so tired, I just want to go home and lie down.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is often used to convey a sense of finally being able to rest after a long period of activity or hardship.
  • Cả ngày làm việc vất vả, tối về chỉ kịp đặt lưng là ngủ luôn. (After a hard day's work, I only have time to lie down at night before falling asleep immediately.)

Variants and Related Words

• Nằm xuống: To lie down. (A more direct and common synonym.)
• Đi ngủ: To go to sleep. (Focuses on the act of sleeping rather than the physical position.)
• Nghỉ ngơi: To rest. (A broader term for resting, not necessarily lying down.)

Synonyms

• Nằm: To lie (down).
• Tựa lưng: To lean one's back (against something). (Implies a seated or reclining position, not fully lying down.)

Related Idioms

• Chưa kịp đặt lưng: Hardly had time to lie down. Used to emphasize being busy or interrupted immediately when trying to rest.
  • Về đến nhà chưa kịp đặt lưng đã có khách. (I got home and hardly had time to lie down before guests arrived.)

1. cũng nói đặt mình Lie down
   • Mới đặt lưng, gà đã gáy
     Hardly had he lain down when the cook crowed