bằng không

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The Vietnamese phrase "bằng không" translates to "otherwise" or "else" in English. It is often used to indicate an alternative action or consequence if a certain condition is not met. Essentially, it suggests that if something is not done or does not happen, then another action must be taken.

Usage Instructions:

• "Bằng không" is typically used in conditional sentences to present an alternative or a consequence of not doing something.
• It often appears after a statement that presents an action or knowledge.

Example:

1. Basic Example:

   • "Nếu bạn không biết cách làm, bằng không thì phải hỏi."
   • Translation: "If you don’t know how to do it, otherwise you must ask."

2. Contextual Example:

   • "Học bài đi, bằng không sẽ không qua được kỳ thi."
   • Translation: "Study your lessons, otherwise you won't pass the exam."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "bằng không" can be used in discussions or arguments to emphasize the importance of taking action. For example: - "Nếu không thực hiện các biện pháp bảo vệ môi trường, bằng không chúng ta sẽ phải đối mặt với nhiều hậu quả nghiêm trọng." - Translation: "If we do not implement environmental protection measures, otherwise we will face many serious consequences."

Word Variants:

While "bằng không" itself is a fixed phrase, you might also encounter variations like: - "Nếu không" - which means "if not" and can often be used interchangeably in some contexts.

Different Meanings:

• While "bằng không" primarily means "otherwise," it can also imply a sense of urgency or necessity in some contexts, highlighting that failure to act will lead to negative outcomes.

Academic

1. Otherwise, [or] else
   • Biết thì làm, bằng không thì phải hỏi
     If one knows how, one can do it, otherwise one must ask
2. It's a mere waste of efforts; it's just labour lost