biết thế

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The Vietnamese phrase "biết thế" translates to "if you know it" in English. It is often used in conversational contexts to imply that someone should have known something or to express regret or disappointment that a situation could have been avoided if only the other person had been aware or informed.

Usage Instructions:

• "Biết thế" is typically used in statements or questions when you want to point out that someone should have realized something or to emphasize that knowledge of a situation would have changed the outcome. It can convey a tone of frustration or resigned acceptance.

Example:

1. Basic Example:

   • "Nếu bạn biết thế, tôi đã không phải đến."
   • (Translation: "If you knew that, I wouldn't have had to come.")

2. Advanced Usage:

   • You could use "biết thế" in a more nuanced way in conversations about plans or decisions. For example:
   • "Biết thế tôi đã không mua vé xem phim."
   • (Translation: "If I had known that, I wouldn't have bought the movie ticket.")

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants for "biết thế," but it is often used with other phrases to convey the same meaning, such as "nếu biết" (if [I/you] knew) or "có biết" (do [you] know).

Different Meanings:

• "Biết thế" is primarily used in the context of knowledge and awareness. It doesn't have significantly different meanings, but the tone and context can change how it is perceived (e.g., casual versus frustrated).

Synonyms:

• "Nếu biết" (If [I/you] knew) - used similarly to indicate a condition based on knowledge.
• "Có biết" (Do you know) - can imply the same sentiment when followed by a statement suggesting a different outcome if knowledge had been present.

Summary:

In summary, "biết thế" is a useful phrase in Vietnamese for expressing the idea that knowledge of a certain fact could have led to a different situation.

Academic

1. If you know it
   • Biết thế tôi chẳng đến cho xong
     If you know it, I would not come