bứ họng

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The Vietnamese word "bứ họng" is an informal expression that describes a situation where someone is caught off guard or rendered speechless, often because they have been exposed for something wrong or deceptive. It can be compared to the English phrase "caught red-handed," which means to be caught in the act of doing something wrong.

Usage Instructions:

• "Bứ họng" is often used in informal contexts, particularly in conversations and storytelling. It is typically used to describe someone who has been caught in a lie or wrongdoing and is unable to respond or defend themselves.

Example:

1. Simple Example:
   • "Khi bị bạn bè phát hiện lừa dối, cậu ta chỉ biết đứng im, thật sự bứ họng."
   • (When his friends found out he was lying, he could only stand still, truly caught off guard.)

Advanced Usage:

• In more complex or serious contexts, "bứ họng" can also be used metaphorically to describe situations where someone is overwhelmed by emotion or circumstances, making them unable to speak or respond.

Word Variants:

• While "bứ họng" itself is quite specific, you might encounter related phrases:
  • Bứ cổ: This is a similar expression meaning to be silenced or unable to speak.
  • Bị bắt quả tang: This means "to be caught red-handed," which can also relate to "bứ họng."

Different Meanings:

• While "bứ họng" primarily refers to being caught off guard or silenced, in some contexts, it can also imply feeling embarrassed or ashamed, leading to a temporary inability to respond.

Synonyms:

• Bị lừa: to be deceived.
• Câm nín: to be silent or mute (due to shock or surprise).
• Bối rối: to be confused or flustered.

Academic

1. như bứ cổ
2. Be reduced to silence
   • Bị bắt quả tang, cậu ta bứ họng
     Caught red-handed, he was reduced to silence