động dong
Definition
- Verb:
- To change one's facial expression due to being emotionally moved: This word describes a visible alteration in a person's countenance, specifically their face, as a direct result of an internal emotional stir or feeling. It implies being touched, affected, or having one's heartstrings pulled.
Usage Examples
- Verb:
- Nghe câu chuyện cảm động, sắc mặt cô ấy động dong. (Listening to the touching story, her facial expression changed, showing she was moved.)
- Ông ấy động dong khi nhận được món quà bất ngờ. (His countenance changed with emotion when he received the unexpected gift.)
Advanced Usage
- This is a literary and somewhat classical term, more commonly found in written Vietnamese (such as in literature, poetry, or formal prose) than in everyday conversation. It conveys a nuanced, observant description of emotional response.
Variants and Related Words
- Động lòng (v): to be moved/touched in one's heart; to feel compassion.
- Câu chuyện ấy khiến ai nghe cũng động lòng. (That story touches the heart of anyone who hears it.)
Synonyms
- To be visibly moved: to show emotion on one's face.
- To change countenance: a more formal synonym for a change in facial expression due to emotion.
Related Idioms
- While "động dong" itself is not typically part of a common idiom, its meaning is closely related to the concept of "động lòng thương" (to be moved to pity/compassion).