ư hự

Người đó chỉ ư hự khi được hỏi ý kiến.

Definition

1. Interjection:
   • An indifferent or noncommittal grunt of acknowledgment: A vocal sound used to indicate that one has heard something or is minimally responsive, but without expressing clear agreement, disagreement, or interest. It conveys a sense of passive acceptance, reluctance, or lack of enthusiasm.

Usage Examples

• Interjection:
  • "Anh có đồng ý với kế hoạch này không?" – "Ư hự." ("Do you agree with this plan?" – "Hmm, I guess.")
  • Khi được hỏi, nó chỉ đáp lại bằng một tiếng "ư hự" rồi quay đi. (When asked, he only answered with a noncommittal grunt and turned away.)

Advanced Usage

• The sound is often used in informal dialogue to portray a character's disinterest, sullenness, or resigned compliance without verbal engagement. It is rarely used in formal writing.

Variants and Related Words

• Ừ (interj): A simple and common affirmative "yes" or "okay," which is more direct and slightly more positive than "ư hự."
• Hự (interj): An abrupt grunt, often expressing effort, surprise, or mild protest. When combined as "ư hự," the meaning leans more toward indifferent acknowledgment.

Synonyms

• Grunt: to make a low, short sound, especially to show indifference.
• Mumble: to speak quietly and indistinctly, often showing reluctance.
• Noncommittal acknowledgment: a response that does not reveal one's opinion or commitment.

Related Idioms

• Trả lời ư hự: to answer with a grunt; to give a dismissive or unenthusiastic reply.
  • Đừng trả lời ư hự với mẹ như thế. (Don't answer your mother with just a grunt.)