ba chân bốn cẳng

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The Vietnamese phrase "ba chân bốn cẳng" literally translates to "three legs, four feet," but it is used to describe someone who is moving very quickly, as if they are running at full speed or as fast as they can. It conveys a sense of urgency or haste in movement.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "ba chân bốn cẳng" when you want to describe someone who is in a hurry or is running fast.
• It can be used in both spoken and written Vietnamese.

Example:

• "Khi nghe tiếng gọi, anh ấy chạy đi ba chân bốn cẳng." (When he heard the call, he ran off as fast as he could.)

Advanced Usage:

• The phrase can be used metaphorically to describe not just physical speed but also the urgency in completing tasks or achieving goals. For example, "Tôi làm việc ba chân bốn cẳng để kịp hoàn thành dự án." (I worked as fast as I could to finish the project on time.)

Word Variants:

• Although "ba chân bốn cẳng" is a fixed phrase, you might hear variations in context, such as simply saying "chạy nhanh" (run fast) if you want a simpler expression.

Different Meanings:

• The phrase primarily refers to speed and urgency. It does not have multiple meanings but is context-dependent when describing situations that require swift action.

Academic

1. At full spead; as fast as one's legs could carry one