nếp

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The Vietnamese word "nếp" has several meanings and uses, making it an interesting word to learn. Here’s a breakdown of its meanings and how to use it:

Basic Meanings:

1. Fold or Crease:

   • Usage: In this context, "nếp" refers to the folds or creases in clothing, particularly trousers. For example, if you want to make your trousers look neat, you might say, "Nếp quần" means to press your trousers and create new creases.
   • Example: "Tôi cần phải là nếp quần trước khi đi làm." (I need to press my trousers before going to work.)

2. Glutinous Rice or Sticky Rice:

   • Usage: "Nếp" also refers to a type of rice that is sticky when cooked, commonly used in various traditional Vietnamese dishes.
   • Example: "Bánh nếp" is a type of glutinous rice cake that is sticky and white.
   • Advanced Usage: You might encounter dishes made from "nếp" like "xôi nếp" (sticky rice) which is often served during special occasions.

3. Sticky and White Variety of Maize:

   • Usage: "Ngô nếp" refers to a specific type of corn that is sticky and sweet, often enjoyed as a snack.
   • Example: "Mùa hè, tôi thích ăn ngô nếp." (In summer, I like to eat sticky corn.)

Different Meanings:

• The term "nếp" can also be used metaphorically to describe ways of thinking or approaches to problems.
  • Example: "Nếp suy nghĩ" translates to "way of thinking," indicating someone's mindset or perspective.

Synonyms:

• For the meaning related to folds or creases, you might use "nếp gấp."
• For sticky rice, "gạo nếp" is commonly used.

Word Variants:

• Nếp gấp: Means fold or crease, specifically used for describing folds in fabric.
• Gạo nếp: Refers specifically to glutinous rice.

Usage Instructions:

• When using "nếp," consider the context to determine its meaning. It can refer to physical characteristics (like folds in clothes) or types of food (like sticky rice) or even abstract concepts (like ways of thinking).

Academic

1. Fold, crease
   • Là lại nếp quần
     To press one's trousers and give them new creases.
2. (nghĩa bóng) Way
   • Nếp suy nghĩ
     A way of thingking
3. Glutinous rice, sticky rice
   • Bánh nếp
     A glutinous rice cake
4. Sticky and white variety
   • Ngô nếp
     The sticky and white variety of maize