The Vietnamese word "phảng phất" can be understood in a couple of ways, primarily as a verb and an adjective.
As a Verb: "Phảng phất" means to float in the air or to waft. It describes something that is not heavy and can easily move or drift in the air, like a scent, a feeling, or even a light mist.
As an Adjective: It can also mean dim or vague. This usage often relates to things that are not clearly defined or that are difficult to see or understand.
In literature or poetry, "phảng phất" often evokes feelings of nostalgia or a sense of longing, particularly when describing memories or emotions that are not easily grasped.
There aren't direct variants of "phảng phất," but you may encounter related words in different contexts that convey similar ideas of lightness or vagueness.
While the primary meanings focus on floating and vagueness, the context in which "phảng phất" is used can suggest different nuances, such as nostalgia or a fleeting moment.