hấp

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The Vietnamese word "hấp" is a versatile verb that has several meanings and uses in different contexts. Below is a detailed explanation to help you understand and use the word effectively.

Basic Meanings:

1. To Steam: One of the primary meanings of "hấp" is to cook food using steam. This method is common in Vietnamese cuisine, especially for dishes like "bánh bao" (steamed buns) or "cá hấp" (steamed fish).

   • "Tôi sẽ hấp cá cho bữa tối."
   • (I will steam the fish for dinner.)

2. To Inhale: "Hấp" can also mean to inhale or breathe in. This usage is often related to breathing in air or substances.

   • "Hãy hấp không khí trong lành."
   • (Breathe in the fresh air.)

3. To Absorb: In a broader sense, "hấp" can mean to absorb something, such as moisture or flavor.

   • "Cái khăn này hấp nước rất tốt."
   • (This towel absorbs water very well.)

Advanced Usage:

1. To Braise: In cooking, "hấp" can refer to a method of braising, where food is cooked slowly in a small amount of liquid, allowing it to become tender and flavorful.

   • "Chúng ta có thể hấp thịt với nước tương."
   • (We can braise the meat with soy sauce.)

2. To Curse: In some contexts, "hấp" can also mean to curse someone, although this usage is less common and may depend on regional dialects or specific phrases.

3. To Dry-Clean Clothes: "Hấp" can refer to the process of dry-cleaning clothes, particularly in the context of cleaning delicate fabrics without using water.

Word Variants:

• Hô hấp: This compound word means "breathing" and refers to the process of inhaling and exhaling air. It is often used in medical or biological contexts.

Synonyms:

• Hấp thụ: This means "to absorb" or "to take in" and is often used in scientific or technical contexts.

• Nấu hơi: This phrase translates to "steam cooking" and can be used interchangeably with "hấp" when referring to the cooking method.

Different Meanings:

• Depending on the context, "hấp" can take on different meanings, so it is essential to pay attention to how it is used in sentences. The meaning can change based on accompanying words or the overall topic of conversation.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "hấp" when talking about cooking methods, especially when referring to steaming or absorbing something.
• In medical or biological discussions, use "hô hấp" to talk about breathing processes.

Academic

verb

1. to steam; to braise; to curse; to dry-clean (clothes)

verb

1. to inhale; to absorb
   • hô hấp
     to breath