ngoài miệng

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The Vietnamese phrase "ngoài miệng" translates to "out of the mouth" in English, and it is often used in expressions to convey the idea of saying something but not truly believing or acting on it. The phrase is commonly associated with the concept of "paying lip service," meaning to express support or agreement verbally without any real intention to follow through with actions.

Usage Instructions

"ngoài miệng" is typically used in negative contexts where someone is being insincere or hypocritical. It is important to use this phrase when you want to point out that someone's words do not match their true intentions or actions.

Example

1. Basic Example:

   • "Anh ta nói rằng sẽ giúp đỡ người nghèo, nhưng đó chỉ là lời hứa ngoài miệng."
   • Translation: "He says he will help the poor, but that’s just lip service."

2. Advanced Usage:

   • "Chúng ta không nên chỉ nói về bảo vệ môi trường ngoài miệng, mà phải hành động thực sự."
   • Translation: "We shouldn't just talk about protecting the environment lip service; we must take real action."

Word Variants

• "Ngoài miệng" can be used in various phrases, often combined with other words that enhance its meaning, such as:
  • "Lời nói ngoài miệng" (words out of the mouth)
  • "Hứa hẹn ngoài miệng" (promises made verbally)

Different Meanings

While "ngoài miệng" primarily indicates insincerity, it can also refer to any statement or claim that is not backed by action or truth. It emphasizes the difference between what someone says and what they genuinely believe or do.

Synonyms

• Lời hứa suông: empty promises
• Nói suông: just talk
• Thuyết phục mà không có hành động: persuasion without action

Conclusion

In summary, "ngoài miệng" captures the essence of saying one thing while meaning another, often highlighting hypocrisy or a lack of genuine intention.

Academic

1. Pay lip service tọ
   • Ngoài miệng thì nhân nghĩa, trong bụng thì độc ác
     To pay lip service to humanity and to be cruel in one's heart of hearts