thưa

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The Vietnamese word "thưa" has different meanings and can be used in various contexts. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand it better.

Basic Meaning

1. As a verb (to complain to): "Thưa" is often used when you want to express a complaint or bring something to someone’s attention. It is a polite way to address someone, especially when you are speaking to someone of higher status or authority.

   • "Thưa thầy, em không hiểu bài này."
   • Translation: "Sir, I do not understand this lesson."

Usage Instructions

• Use "thưa" at the beginning of a sentence when you want to respectfully address someone, especially in formal situations.
• It is commonly used in schools, workplaces, or during official communications.

Advanced Usage

In more formal contexts, "thưa" can also be paired with other words to create phrases such as "thưa quý vị" (Dear esteemed guests) or "thưa ngài" (Dear Sir).

Word Variants

• Thưa vâng: Yes, sir (a respectful way to respond).
• Thưa bà: Dear Madam (used to address a woman formally).

Different Meanings

• As an adjective (thin, sparse): In another context, "thưa" describes something that is thin, sparse, or not dense. This usage is often applied to describe objects or materials.

  • "Cây cối ở đây khá thưa."
  • Translation: "The trees here are quite sparse."

Synonyms

• For the verb meaning (to complain to), synonyms include "trình bày" (to present) or "báo cáo" (to report).
• For the adjective meaning (thin, sparse), synonyms include "thưa thớt" (sparse) or "mỏng" (thin).

Conclusion

Overall, "thưa" is a versatile word in Vietnamese that is mainly used in formal contexts to show respect while addressing someone.

Academic

adj

1. thin, sparse occasional

verb

1. to complain to