nhấp nhổm

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The Vietnamese word "nhấp nhổm" describes a feeling of restlessness or anxiety, similar to the English expression "being on tenterhooks." It conveys a sense of impatience or eagerness, often when someone is waiting for something or feeling uneasy about a situation.

Usage Instructions

"Nhấp nhổm" is typically used to express the feeling of being anxious or restless while waiting for something to happen. It can describe both physical restlessness (like fidgeting) and emotional anxiety.

Example

• Vietnamese: Cô ấy vừa đến đã nhấp nhổm định về.
• English: She just arrived and was anxious to leave.

Advanced Usage

In more advanced contexts, "nhấp nhổm" can be used to describe someone who is not only anxious but also visibly fidgeting or unable to stay still due to their emotions. This could be in situations such as waiting for a test result, anticipating a significant event, or even during exciting moments.

Word Variants

• Nhấp nhổm can also be used in different tenses or forms in sentences to fit the context, such as "nhấp nhổm chờ đợi" (restlessly waiting) or "cảm thấy nhấp nhổm" (feeling anxious).

Different Meanings

While "nhấp nhổm" primarily conveys the idea of restlessness, it can also imply a sense of excitement mixed with anxiety. It does not usually have a positive connotation, as it often relates to discomfort or impatience.

Synonyms

• Hồi hộp: This means "nervous" or "excited," often used in a similar context but with a slightly different emphasis on anticipation rather than restlessness.
• Bồn chồn: This translates to "fidgety" or "uneasy," which reflects a similar feeling of anxiety.

Academic

1. Be on tenterhooks, be anxious
   • Vừa đến đã nhấp nhổm định về
     To be anxious to go back though one has just come