ẽo à ẽo ẹt
Definition
Adjective:
- Weak and flimsy; lacking strength or firmness: Describes an object, structure, or material that is physically feeble, insubstantial, and easily bent or broken.
- Lacking vitality or energy; feeble: Describes a person's movement, voice, or manner as being weak, listless, or without vigor.
Adjective (figurative):
- Unconvincing or feeble: Describes an argument, excuse, or performance that is weak, ineffective, and fails to persuade or impress.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Cái ghế này làm ẽo à ẽo ẹt, ngồi không yên tâm. (This chair is made weak and flimsy; I don't feel safe sitting on it.)
- Sau trận ốm, anh ấy đi lại ẽo à ẽo ẹt. (After the illness, he moves around feebly.)
- Lý lẽ của nó nghe ẽo à ẽo ẹt, không ai tin. (His reasoning sounds feeble; no one believes it.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase "ẽo à ẽo ẹt" is a reduplicative form that intensifies the meaning of the root "ẽo ẹt," emphasizing a high degree of weakness, flimsiness, or ineffectiveness. It is often used in a dismissive or critical tone.
Variants and Related Words
- Ẻo ẹt (adj): weak, flimsy, feeble. This is the base form.
- Giọng nói ẻo ẹt (a feeble voice).
Synonyms
- Flimsy: lacking solidity or strength.
- Feeble: weak, lacking strength.
- Frail: fragile, easily broken.
- Limp: lacking stiffness or firmness.
- Wishy-washy: lacking in strength of character or conviction (for figurative use).
Related Idioms
- While "ẽo à ẽo ẹt" itself is an idiomatic expression, it is related to the concept of:
- Yếu ớt: weak, frail.
- Sức khỏe yếu ớt (frail health).