Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Dull (yellow): Describes a pale, sickly, or faded shade of yellow, often lacking brightness or vitality. It is primarily used to describe an unhealthy complexion.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Nước da vàng ệnh. (A dull yellow complexion.)
  • Bức tường sơn màu vàng ệnh. (The wall is painted a dull yellow color.)

Advanced Usage

• The word "ệnh" is almost exclusively used in combination with "vàng" (yellow) to form the compound adjective "vàng ệnh." It is rarely, if ever, used independently in modern Vietnamese.

Variants and Related Words

• Vàng ệnh (compound adjective): A dull, sallow, or pale yellow.
  • Lá cây chuyển sang màu vàng ệnh. (The leaves turned a dull yellow.)

Synonyms

• Sallow: A yellowish, sickly pale color, especially for skin.
• Pallid: Pale, often to the point of appearing faint or unhealthy.
• Wan: Pale and giving the impression of illness or exhaustion.

Notes on Usage

• "ệnh" is a bound morpheme, meaning it does not function as a standalone word. Its meaning is only realized when paired with "vàng."
• The term "vàng ệnh" typically carries a negative connotation, implying something is faded, unhealthy, or lacking in vibrancy.

1. Dull (yellow)
   • Nước da vàng ệnh
     A dull yellow complexion