mất

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The Vietnamese word "mất" is a versatile verb that can mean several things depending on the context. Here’s a breakdown of its meanings, usage, and examples to help you understand it better.

Basic Meaning:

1. To lose: This is the most common meaning of "mất." It refers to the act of no longer having something that you once had.

   • Example: "Tôi mất cuốn sách của tôi." (I've lost my book.)

2. To die: "Mất" can also be used as a euphemism for dying, often used to speak respectfully about someone's passing.

   • Example: "Ông ta mất hồi nào?" (When did he die?)

3. To take (in terms of time): "Mất" can describe the duration of time it takes to do something.

   • Example: "Chuyến đi phải mất một ngày." (The journey takes a day.)

Usage Instructions:

• To express loss: Use "mất" when you want to convey that you have lost something.
• To refer to death: Use "mất" when discussing someone's death, particularly in more formal or respectful conversations.
• To indicate time taken: Use "mất" when you're discussing how long a task or journey will take.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "mất" can be combined with other words to form phrases, such as: - Mất phương hướng: to lose direction. - Mất niềm tin: to lose faith or confidence.

Word Variants:

• Mất mát: loss, especially in a more significant or emotional context.
• Mất đi: to lose (something) permanently.

Different Meanings:

The meaning of "mất" can be nuanced based on context. For instance: - If you say, "Mất điện," it means "to lose electricity" (the power goes out). - If you say, "Mất tích," it means "to go missing."

Synonyms:

• Thua: to lose in a competition or game.
• Vắng: to be absent, which can convey a sense of loss in presence.
• Chết: to die (more direct, less euphemistic than "mất").

Academic

verb

1. to lose
   • tôi mất cuốn sách của tôi
     I've lost the book
2. to die; to vanish
   • ông ta mất hồi nào
     when did he die? to take
   • chuyến đi phải mất một ngày
     the journey takes a day