ngập ngà ngập ngừng

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The Vietnamese phrase "ngập ngà ngập ngừng" is an example of reduplication, a common linguistic feature in Vietnamese where a word or part of a word is repeated to create a specific meaning or to add emphasis. This phrase is often used to describe a state of hesitation or uncertainty, particularly when someone is unsure about what to say or do.

Explanation

• Meaning: "Ngập ngà ngập ngừng" conveys a sense of being hesitant, indecisive, or wavering. It can describe someone who is not fully committed to a decision or action, reflecting uncertainty or a pause in thought.

Usage Instructions

• You can use this phrase when you want to describe someone who is struggling to make a decision or is hesitating to express their thoughts.
• It is often used in informal conversations and can apply to various contexts, such as personal decisions, public speaking, or even in writing.

Example

• Cô ấy ngập ngà ngập ngừng khi phải chọn giữa hai công việc. (She hesitated and was uncertain when she had to choose between two jobs.)

Advanced Usage

• In more complex sentences, "ngập ngà ngập ngừng" can be used to describe a situation where multiple factors cause someone to hesitate. For example:
  • Trước khi đưa ra quyết định, anh ta ngập ngà ngập ngừng vì lo lắng về tương lai. (Before making a decision, he hesitated because he was worried about the future.)

Word Variants

• Other similar terms that express hesitation or uncertainty include:
  • Ngập ngừng: This is a simpler form that essentially means "hesitant" or "uncertain."
  • Chần chừ: This term means "to procrastinate" or "to delay," often used in a similar context of hesitation.

Different Meanings

• While "ngập ngà ngập ngừng" mainly describes hesitation, it can also imply a playful or light-hearted sense of uncertainty, particularly in casual conversations.

Synonyms

• Some synonyms that express similar meanings include:
  • Do dự: To waver or hesitate.
  • Lưỡng lự: To be indecisive or uncertain.

Academic

1. xem ngập ngừng (láy)