lại

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The Vietnamese word "lại" is quite versatile and can be used in several contexts. Here’s a breakdown of its meanings and usage:

Basic Meanings:

1. Again: "lại" is often used to indicate that something happens again.

   • Example: "Tôi sẽ làm lại bài tập này." (I will do this homework again.)

2. Still: It can also mean "still," suggesting that something continues to happen.

   • Example: "Trời vẫn lạnh, lại còn mưa." (It is still cold, and it is raining.)

3. Should: In some contexts, "lại" can imply "should" or "ought to."

   • Example: "Sao lại đánh nó?" (Why should you beat him?)

4. Back: It can also mean "back" when referring to returning to a place.

   • Example: "Tôi sẽ về lại nhà." (I will go back home.)

Verb Usage:

• "lại" can function as a verb meaning "to come" or "to arrive."
  • Example: "Cô ta vừa mới lại." (She has just arrived.)

Advanced Usage:

• In more complex sentences, "lại" can connect ideas or actions, emphasizing repetition or contrast.
  • Example: "Anh ấy đã nói lại điều đó nhiều lần." (He has said that again many times.)

Variants and Forms:

• "lại" can be combined with other words to create phrases. For instance:
  • "lại một lần nữa" (once again)
  • "lại nữa" (again, more)

Different Meanings:

• The meaning of "lại" can change based on the context. It’s important to pay attention to surrounding words to understand its role in a sentence.

Academic

adv. again

1. Still; should; back
   • cãi lại
     to talk back
   • sao lại đánh nó?
     Why should you beat him?

verb

1. to come; to arrive
   • cô ta vừa mới lại
     She has just arrived