la trời

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The Vietnamese phrase "la trời" literally translates to "cry to the sky" in English. It is often used in a figurative sense to express a deep feeling of desperation or to call out for help, especially in difficult situations. It can imply seeking mercy or assistance from a higher power, as if you're crying out to God or the universe for support.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "la trời" when you feel overwhelmed or when you are in a tough situation and need help.
• It can be used in both serious contexts (like during a personal crisis) and in lighter, more dramatic situations (like when something goes wrong unexpectedly).

Example:

• "Khi tôi mất việc, tôi chỉ biết la trời."
  • Translation: "When I lost my job, I could only cry to the sky."

Advanced Usage:

In literature or poetry, "la trời" can be used to convey strong emotions, such as despair, longing, or a plea for help. It can also be part of longer expressions to emphasize the depth of one's feelings.

Word Variants:

• "La" can mean to cry or shout.
• "Trời" can refer to the sky, heaven, or God, depending on the context.

Different Meanings:

While "la trời" primarily conveys desperation or a plea for help, in a more casual setting, it can also be used humorously to exaggerate a situation. For instance, if someone spills a drink, they might jokingly "la trời" as a way to express their frustration.

Synonyms:

• "Kêu trời": This is another phrase that means to call out to the sky, similar in meaning to "la trời."
• "Xin giúp đỡ": This means "to ask for help," which conveys a similar sentiment but is more direct.

Academic

1. Cry to God for mercy (for help)