kẹ

Friendly

The Vietnamese word "kẹ" is a local term that can mean "crab" in certain dialects, particularly in the northern regions of Vietnam. It is often used in informal contexts and can vary in meaning based on the area and the way it is used in a sentence.

Basic Explanation:

• Meaning: "Kẹ" generally refers to a type of crab, particularly in local dialects. It captures the essence of a small, often edible crab.

Usage Instructions:

1. Context: Use "kẹ" when talking about seafood, especially when referring to crab dishes or when discussing fishing in local waters.
2. Formality: It is an informal term, so it is best used in casual conversations rather than formal writing.

Example:

• Sentence: "Hôm nay tôi sẽ nấu món kẹ rang me." (Today, I will cook crab with tamarind sauce.)

Advanced Usage:

• In some contexts, "kẹ" can also refer to something that is small or cute, drawing a metaphorical connection to the small size of crabs. This usage is more playful and is often found in colloquial speech.

Word Variants:

• "Ghẹ" is another term used in Vietnamese that also means crab, but it typically refers to a specific type of crab that is more popular in coastal areas.

Different Meanings:

• While "kẹ" primarily means crab, in some regions, it might be used informally to describe something or someone that is small, cute, or endearing. However, this usage is less common.

Synonyms:

• Ghẹ: A more formal term for crab, often used in culinary contexts.
• Cua: A general term for crab, which can refer to various types of crabs in a more standard Vietnamese context.

Summary:

The word "kẹ" is primarily used to refer to crabs in a casual, local context.

Academic

1. (tiếng địa phương) như ghẹ