nẫu

Friendly

The Vietnamese word "nẫu" primarily describes the condition of being overripe, especially in relation to fruits. When a fruit is "nẫu," it has become too ripe, often to the point where it may be soft, mushy, or starting to spoil. This term is commonly used in everyday conversation, particularly when talking about fruits that are no longer at their best for eating.

Basic Usage

• Meaning: "Nẫu" refers to fruits that are overripe.
• Example: "Quả na chín nẫu" means "the custard apple is overripe." This indicates that the custard apple has become too soft and may not be very pleasant to eat anymore.

Advanced Usage

In a broader sense, "nẫu" can also be used metaphorically to describe something that has gone beyond its ideal state or has deteriorated. For example, you might use it to describe food that has spoiled, or even a situation that has become too complicated or difficult to manage.

Word Variants

While "nẫu" is primarily used for fruits, it can also be applied to other perishable items. However, it is less common to see it used outside of fruit contexts.

Different Meanings

• Overripe Fruits: As mentioned, this is the main meaning.
• Metaphorical Use: It can imply that something is too far gone or past the point of being useful or good.

Synonyms

• Chín quá: This means "too ripe" and can be used similarly to describe fruit that has ripened excessively.
• Hư: This means "spoiled" or "rotten," which can also imply that something is no longer usable or edible.

Conclusion

When learning Vietnamese, understanding the nuances of words like "nẫu" can greatly enhance your conversational skills. It offers insight not only into food but also into how language can express degrees of conditions and states.

Academic

1. Over[-ripe]
   • Quả na chín nẫu
     An over-ripe custard-apple