sặc

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The Vietnamese word "sặc" can be understood in a couple of ways, primarily as a verb. Here’s a detailed explanation for new learners:

Basic Meaning:

1. To choke: "Sặc" is often used to describe the action of choking, particularly when someone inhales something (like food or liquid) that blocks their throat or airway.

   • Example: "Khi ăn uống, nếu không cẩn thận, bạn có thể bị sặc." (When eating, if you’re not careful, you can choke.)

2. To reek of: In another context, "sặc" can describe a strong smell or odor. It’s often used to indicate something that has a very noticeable scent, usually unpleasant.

   • Example: "Mùi cá sặc trong bếp." (The smell of fish reeks in the kitchen.)

Usage Instructions:

• When using "sặc" in the context of choking, it’s important to pair it with situations involving eating or drinking.
• For the meaning related to smell, "sặc" can be used with nouns that describe strong odors, especially in negative contexts.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "sặc" can be used metaphorically to describe situations where one feels overwhelmed (like being "choked" by emotions) or when something is so pungent that it fills a space.

Word Variants:

• Sặc sụa: This is a variation that emphasizes the choking action and can describe a more intense situation of choking.
• Sặc mùi: This phrase specifically refers to a strong smell, often used to describe something that is overwhelmingly odorous.

Different Meanings:

• While primarily a verb, "sặc" can also appear in colloquial phrases or expressions that convey a sense of being overwhelmed or inundated, similar to the meanings above.

Synonyms:

• For choking: "nghẹn" (to choke, to be choked).
• For strong smell: "hôi" (to smell bad), "nặng mùi" (strong smell).

Summary:

In summary, "sặc" is a versatile verb in Vietnamese. It primarily means "to choke" and can also mean "to reek of." It can be used in various contexts related to both physical choking and strong unpleasant smells.

Academic

verb

1. to choke to reek of