At the A1 level, 'nhìn' is taught as a basic action verb. Students learn it to follow simple instructions like 'Look at the board' (Nhìn lên bảng) or 'Look at the picture' (Nhìn vào tranh). It is one of the first verbs used in classroom settings. The focus is on the direct subject-verb-object structure: 'Tôi nhìn bạn' (I look at you). At this stage, learners should distinguish 'nhìn' from 'xem' (to watch/read) and 'thấy' (to see). A1 learners use 'nhìn' to describe immediate physical actions in the present tense. It is often paired with 'kìa' (over there) to point things out to others. The goal is to establish the habit of using the 'huyền' tone correctly and understanding that 'nhìn' is an active process of the eyes.
At the A2 level, learners begin to use 'nhìn' in more complex daily scenarios. They start using directional particles like 'nhìn lên' (look up), 'nhìn xuống' (look down), 'nhìn trái' (look left), and 'nhìn phải' (look right). They also learn the resultative compound 'nhìn thấy' to express 'to see' (discovery). A2 students use 'nhìn' to describe their surroundings in more detail, such as 'Nhìn kìa, trời sắp mưa' (Look, it's about to rain). They also begin to use simple adverbs of manner, like 'nhìn kỹ' (look carefully) or 'nhìn nhanh' (look quickly). The distinction between 'nhìn' and 'trông' (to look like/appear) becomes a focus to avoid common errors in describing people's appearances.
At the B1 level, 'nhìn' starts to take on more abstract and figurative meanings. Learners use it to discuss perspectives and opinions. Phrases like 'nhìn chung' (generally speaking) or 'nhìn từ góc độ này' (looking from this angle) become common in discussions. B1 learners can use 'nhìn' to describe social interactions, such as 'nhìn chằm chằm' (staring) and understand the social implications of doing so. They also encounter 'nhìn' in more idiomatic contexts, such as 'nhìn lại' (looking back at the past/reflecting). The focus shifts from simple physical sight to using 'nhìn' as a tool for analysis and reflection in both spoken and written Vietnamese.
At the B2 level, 'nhìn' is used in professional and academic contexts. Learners are expected to use compound verbs like 'nhìn nhận' (to perceive/recognize an issue) or 'nhìn thấu' (to see through something/someone). They understand the nuance between 'nhìn' and more formal synonyms like 'quan sát' (observe) or 'theo dõi' (monitor). B2 students can use 'nhìn' to express complex social dynamics, such as 'nhìn sắc mặt' (reading someone's facial expressions to gauge their mood). They are comfortable using 'nhìn' in hypothetical scenarios and can discuss the 'tầm nhìn' (vision/outlook) of a company or an individual. The word becomes a way to express deep insight rather than just visual input.
At the C1 level, 'nhìn' is used with high precision and literary flair. Learners can appreciate and use 'nhìn' in classical literature and poetry, where it might represent a philosophical gaze or a soul's perspective. They understand the subtle differences between 'nhìn', 'ngắm', 'chiêm ngưỡng', and 'thưởng ngoạn'. C1 speakers use 'nhìn' to construct sophisticated arguments, using it as a metaphor for societal oversight or historical perspective. They are sensitive to the register and tone that 'nhìn' conveys in different dialects and social strata. At this level, 'nhìn' is no longer just a verb but a thematic element in their communication, capable of conveying irony, empathy, or critical distance.
At the C2 level, a speaker uses 'nhìn' with the mastery of a native professional. They can navigate the most complex idiomatic expressions involving 'nhìn' without hesitation. They understand the etymological roots and how 'nhìn' has evolved in the Vietnamese language. C2 learners can use 'nhìn' to discuss high-level concepts in philosophy, art criticism, and political science. They can manipulate the word to create puns, double meanings, or specific rhetorical effects. Their usage is indistinguishable from a highly educated native speaker, incorporating 'nhìn' into a rich tapestry of vocabulary that describes the human experience and the act of perception in all its myriad forms.

nhìn في 30 ثانية

  • Nhìn is the primary Vietnamese verb for 'to look', focusing on the physical action of directing the eyes.
  • It is different from 'xem' (watching/reading) and 'thấy' (the result of seeing).
  • It can be used physically (look at a cat) or abstractly (look at a problem).
  • Commonly paired with directional words like 'lên', 'xuống', 'vào', and 'qua'.

The Vietnamese word nhìn is a fundamental verb that every learner must master early in their journey. At its core, it translates to 'to look' or 'to gaze.' Unlike English, which often distinguishes between 'looking' (the action) and 'seeing' (the result), Vietnamese uses nhìn primarily for the physical act of directing one's eyes toward an object. However, its usage extends far beyond simple optics. It is used in daily conversations to describe observing, inspecting, or even judging a situation based on visual evidence. When you are walking down a street in Hanoi and someone tells you to 'look at that,' they will use nhìn. It is the basic building block for more complex visual actions like ngắm (to admire) or xem (to watch/read).

Physical Action
The most common use is the simple act of directing the eyes. Example: Nhìn tôi này! (Look at me!)
Observation
Used when examining the state of something. Example: Nhìn kỹ nhé. (Look closely/carefully.)
Perception
To perceive or understand a situation. Example: Nhìn chung thì ổn. (Looking at it generally, it is fine.)

Đừng nhìn chằm chằm vào người khác như vậy.

In a cultural context, nhìn can carry weight regarding social etiquette. In Vietnam, looking directly into someone's eyes can be seen as a sign of confidence, but staring intensely at an elder might be considered disrespectful. Therefore, the way you use nhìn—whether it is a quick glance or a steady gaze—changes the social dynamic significantly. It is also important to note that nhìn is often paired with other words to create specific meanings, such as nhìn thấy, which literally means 'look and find' but is the standard way to say 'to see' (as in the result of looking).

Bạn có nhìn thấy chìa khóa của tôi không?

When you use this word in a sentence, it usually follows the subject directly. Unlike English, you don't always need a preposition like 'at'—you can say 'nhìn tôi' (look me) instead of 'look at me,' although 'nhìn vào tôi' is also correct and adds a bit more focus. As you progress, you will see nhìn used in metaphors about life, perspectives, and future outlooks, making it one of the most versatile verbs in the Vietnamese language.

Hãy nhìn về phía trước.

Cô ấy nhìn qua cửa sổ.

Mastering the grammar of nhìn involves understanding its relationship with objects and direction. In its simplest form, the structure is: [Subject] + nhìn + [Object]. For example, 'Tôi nhìn bầu trời' (I look at the sky). To add detail, you can include prepositions like vào (into/at), qua (through), or xuống (down). These nuances are crucial for English speakers who are used to the 'look + preposition' structure. In Vietnamese, the preposition is often optional but provides clarity on the direction of the gaze.

Direct Object
Subject + Nhìn + Object. Example: Em nhìn con mèo kìa. (Look at that cat over there.)
Directional
Subject + Nhìn + [Direction]. Example: Nhìn lên trên. (Look up above.)

Anh ấy đang nhìn vào gương.

Another important aspect is the use of aspect markers like đang (currently doing). 'Tôi đang nhìn' means 'I am looking.' If you want to express the ability to see, you use 'có thể nhìn' or 'nhìn được.' However, the most frequent pairing you will encounter is nhìn thấy. This is a resultative compound. Nhìn is the action (looking), and thấy is the perception (seeing). If you are looking for your glasses but haven't found them, you can say 'Tôi đang nhìn nhưng không thấy' (I am looking but don't see them).

Đừng nhìn lại phía sau.

In more advanced structures, nhìn can start a sentence to mean 'Considering...' or 'Looking at...'. For instance, 'Nhìn từ góc độ này...' (Looking from this perspective...). This shows that the word is not just for physical sight but also for intellectual analysis. We also see it in many idiomatic expressions where 'looking' represents an attitude, such as 'nhìn đời' (looking at life/one's outlook on life). Understanding these variations allows you to transition from basic A1 sentences to more natural, fluent Vietnamese.

Chúng ta cần nhìn nhận vấn đề một cách khách quan.

Compound Verbs
Nhìn + [Result/Manner]. Example: Nhìn lén (to peek), Nhìn kỹ (to look closely).

The word nhìn is ubiquitous in Vietnam. In a bustling market like Chợ Bến Thành, you will hear vendors shouting to get your attention: 'Nhìn thử cái này đi em!' (Look at this one, dear!). It is the primary way to draw visual attention. In family settings, parents constantly use it with children: 'Nhìn đường kìa!' (Look at the road/Watch where you're going!). It is a word of warning, a word of invitation, and a word of instruction all rolled into one.

Mọi người đang nhìn chúng ta kìa.

In modern media, such as Vietnamese pop songs (V-Pop) or movies, nhìn is often used to describe romantic gazes. Phrases like 'nhìn vào đôi mắt' (looking into the eyes) are common tropes. In professional settings, you might hear 'nhìn vào số liệu' (look at the data) or 'nhìn vào thực tế' (look at the reality). It is neutral in register, meaning it is appropriate for both a casual coffee chat and a formal board meeting. Its frequency in daily life makes it one of the top 100 most used verbs in the language.

Cứ nhìn thẳng vào sự thật đi.

Interestingly, in the digital age, nhìn is also used when talking about screens, though 'xem' (to watch) is more common for videos. If you are just looking at a photo on a phone, you say 'nhìn ảnh.' If someone is staring at their phone too much, you might hear 'Suốt ngày chỉ biết nhìn vào điện thoại' (Looking at the phone all day long). This highlights how the word has adapted to modern technology while maintaining its core meaning of visual focus.

Đừng nhìn tôi cười như vậy.

In social interactions, 'nhìn' can also denote social status or judgment. 'Nhìn người' means to judge or evaluate a person based on their appearance or behavior. A common saying is 'Nhìn mặt mà bắt hình dong,' which means to judge a person's character by their face (similar to 'judging a book by its cover'). This deep cultural integration means that when you learn 'nhìn,' you aren't just learning a verb; you're learning how Vietnamese people perceive and interact with the world around them.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is confusing nhìn with xem. In English, 'look' and 'watch' are sometimes interchangeable, but in Vietnamese, they have distinct boundaries. Nhìn is for a static or specific look at something, while xem is for watching something that unfolds over time, like a movie, a football match, or reading a book. If you say 'Tôi nhìn phim,' a native speaker will understand you, but it sounds like you are just staring at the screen without following the story.

Nhìn vs. Xem
Nhìn = to look (at a point). Xem = to watch/read (an activity).
Nhìn vs. Thấy
Nhìn = the action. Thấy = the result. Use 'nhìn thấy' for 'to see'.

Sai: Tôi nhìn sách. Đúng: Tôi đọc sách / Tôi nhìn vào quyển sách.

Another mistake is using nhìn to mean 'to look like' (appear). As mentioned before, 'trông' or 'nhìn có vẻ' should be used for appearances. Saying 'Bạn nhìn mệt' is grammatically awkward; 'Bạn trông mệt' or 'Nhìn bạn có vẻ mệt' is much more natural. Additionally, learners often forget the tone. Nhìn has a 'huyền' (falling) tone. If you mispronounce it with a 'ngã' or 'hỏi' tone, it might not be understood at all, or it could sound like 'nhịn' (to endure/refrain), which has a completely different meaning.

Sai: Nhìn anh ấy rất cao. Đúng: Trông anh ấy rất cao.

Finally, don't over-rely on prepositions. While 'nhìn vào' is correct, often 'nhìn' followed directly by the object is more common in fast speech. English speakers often feel 'naked' saying 'nhìn tôi' instead of 'look at me,' but in Vietnamese, it is perfectly standard. Practice stripping away unnecessary words to sound more like a native. Avoiding these common pitfalls will significantly improve your clarity and naturalness when speaking Vietnamese.

Sai: Đừng nhìn tại tôi. Đúng: Đừng nhìn tôi.

Vietnamese is rich in verbs related to vision, and choosing the right one can elevate your speaking from basic to sophisticated. While nhìn is the general term, several others offer more specific nuances. Ngắm is perhaps the most beautiful alternative; it means to look at something with pleasure or admiration, like a sunset or a piece of art. Trông is often used for looking after something (watching a house) or describing an appearance. Quan sát means to observe carefully, often for scientific or analytical purposes.

Ngắm
To admire/gaze with pleasure. Example: Ngắm trăng (admire the moon).
Xem
To watch/read/examine. Example: Xem tivi (watch TV).
Liếc
To glance or look out of the corner of the eye. Often used for quick, sometimes secretive looks.

Cô ấy liếc nhìn đồng hồ.

Then there are words like ngó and nhòm, which are more informal and can sometimes imply nosiness. Nhòm is often used for looking through a small opening or hole. Dòm is a southern variation of nhòm and is very common in informal speech in Ho Chi Minh City. If you want to say 'to peek,' you would use nhìn lén. For 'to stare,' use nhìn chằm chằm. Each of these adds a layer of meaning that nhìn alone cannot convey.

Họ đang quan sát hành vi của động vật.

In summary, while nhìn is your 'safe' go-to word, pay attention to how natives use these alternatives. Using nhìn instead of xem for a movie is a common beginner error, but using ngắm for a landscape will make you sound like an advanced speaker. The richness of Vietnamese verbs of vision reflects a culture that values observation and aesthetic appreciation.

Đừng ngó vào chuyện của người khác.

How Formal Is It?

حقيقة ممتعة

The word 'nhìn' is often used in Vietnamese proverbs to emphasize wisdom and character judgment, reflecting a culture that values keen observation.

دليل النطق

UK /ɲìn/
US /ɲìn/
Monosyllabic; no word-level stress.
يتقافى مع
mình tình bình hình đình kình thình trình
أخطاء شائعة
  • Pronouncing 'nh' as a hard 'n'.
  • Using a rising tone instead of the falling 'huyền' tone.
  • Making the 'i' sound too short like 'it' instead of 'ee'.
  • Confusing it with 'nhịn' (low constricted tone).
  • Pronouncing it like 'nin' in English.

مستوى الصعوبة

القراءة 1/5

Very easy to recognize; common in all texts.

الكتابة 1/5

Simple spelling with only one tone mark.

التحدث 2/5

Requires correct 'huyền' tone and 'nh' pronunciation.

الاستماع 2/5

Must distinguish from 'nhịn' or 'nhín'.

ماذا تتعلّم بعد ذلك

المتطلبات الأساسية

Mắt Tôi Bạn Cái này Kìa

تعلّم لاحقاً

Thấy Xem Ngắm Trông Quan sát

متقدم

Chiêm ngưỡng Thưởng ngoạn Thấu thị Lăng kính

قواعد يجب معرفتها

Resultative Compounds

Nhìn (action) + thấy (result) = to see.

Directional Post-verbs

Nhìn + lên/xuống/vào/ra/qua.

Imperative with 'đi'

Nhìn đi! (Go ahead and look!)

Adverbial Placement

Nhìn + kỹ (Verb + Adverb).

Negative Imperative with 'Đừng'

Đừng nhìn.

أمثلة حسب المستوى

1

Nhìn kìa!

Look there!

Simple imperative using 'kìa' for emphasis.

2

Tôi nhìn con mèo.

I look at the cat.

Basic Subject + Verb + Object structure.

3

Bạn nhìn tôi đi.

Look at me.

Using 'đi' to make a polite command.

4

Nhìn vào gương.

Look into the mirror.

Using 'vào' to indicate looking 'into' something.

5

Đừng nhìn!

Don't look!

Negative imperative using 'Đừng'.

6

Em nhìn cái gì?

What are you looking at?

Basic question structure with 'cái gì'.

7

Nhìn lên bảng.

Look at the board.

Directional verb 'lên' (up) used with 'nhìn'.

8

Họ nhìn nhau.

They look at each other.

Using 'nhau' to indicate reciprocal action.

1

Tôi không nhìn thấy anh ấy.

I can't see him.

Resultative compound 'nhìn thấy' in the negative.

2

Hãy nhìn kỹ bức tranh này.

Please look carefully at this painting.

Adverb 'kỹ' (carefully) modifying 'nhìn'.

3

Nhìn bên trái rồi nhìn bên phải.

Look left then look right.

Sequential actions using directional phrases.

4

Anh nhìn thấy gì trong hộp?

What do you see in the box?

Question using the resultative 'nhìn thấy'.

5

Đừng nhìn chằm chằm vào người ta.

Don't stare at people.

Idiomatic 'nhìn chằm chằm' for 'to stare'.

6

Tôi nhìn qua cửa sổ.

I look through the window.

Preposition 'qua' (through/across).

7

Nhìn kìa, hoa đang nở!

Look, the flowers are blooming!

Exclamatory use of 'Nhìn kìa'.

8

Bạn có nhìn thấy ví của tôi không?

Do you see my wallet?

Yes/No question structure with 'nhìn thấy'.

1

Nhìn chung, dự án này khá tốt.

Overall, this project is quite good.

Abstract usage of 'Nhìn chung' (In general).

2

Chúng ta nên nhìn lại những gì đã làm.

We should look back at what we have done.

Figurative 'nhìn lại' for reflection.

3

Cô ấy nhìn tôi với ánh mắt ngạc nhiên.

She looked at me with a surprised look.

Describing the manner of looking using 'với ánh mắt'.

4

Đừng nhìn đời bằng con mắt tiêu cực.

Don't look at life through a negative lens.

Idiomatic 'nhìn đời' (outlook on life).

5

Nhìn từ xa, ngôi nhà trông rất nhỏ.

Looking from afar, the house looks very small.

Participial phrase 'Nhìn từ xa'.

6

Anh ấy nhìn thấu tâm can tôi.

He saw through my soul/innermost feelings.

Metaphorical 'nhìn thấu' (see through).

7

Hãy nhìn vào thực tế đi.

Look at the reality.

Using 'nhìn vào' for abstract concepts like reality.

8

Tôi nhìn thấy cơ hội trong khó khăn.

I see opportunity in difficulty.

Abstract 'nhìn thấy' for recognizing concepts.

1

Chúng ta cần nhìn nhận vấn đề một cách khách quan.

We need to perceive/evaluate the problem objectively.

Formal compound verb 'nhìn nhận'.

2

Nhìn vào số liệu, ta thấy sự tăng trưởng rõ rệt.

Looking at the data, we see clear growth.

Professional usage in data analysis.

3

Ông ấy là người có cái nhìn xa trông rộng.

He is a person with a farsighted vision.

Idiomatic expression for visionary leadership.

4

Đừng chỉ nhìn vào bề ngoài của một người.

Don't just look at a person's appearance.

Moral advice regarding perception.

5

Họ nhìn nhau đắm đuối.

They looked at each other passionately.

Using descriptive adverbs for emotional gazes.

6

Tôi nhìn ra sai lầm của mình ngay lập tức.

I realized my mistake immediately.

'Nhìn ra' as a phrasal verb meaning 'to realize/detect'.

7

Nhìn từ góc độ kinh tế, điều này không khả thi.

Looking from an economic perspective, this is not feasible.

Advanced phrase 'Nhìn từ góc độ'.

8

Cô ấy có khả năng nhìn thấu lời nói dối.

She has the ability to see through lies.

Abstract 'nhìn thấu' applied to deception.

1

Tác phẩm này cho thấy một cái nhìn mới về lịch sử.

This work shows a new perspective on history.

Noun phrase 'cái nhìn' meaning 'perspective'.

2

Ông ấy nhìn đời bằng nửa con mắt.

He looks at the world with contempt/disdain.

Idiom for looking down on others.

3

Chúng ta phải nhìn nhận lại giá trị của bản thân.

We must re-evaluate our own values.

Reflexive abstract evaluation.

4

Nhìn vào di sản của ông, chúng ta thấy sự tận hiến.

Looking at his legacy, we see dedication.

C1 level abstract analysis.

5

Ánh mắt ấy như nhìn thấu mọi ngóc ngách tâm hồn.

That gaze seemed to see into every corner of the soul.

Literary/Poetic description.

6

Nhìn qua lăng kính văn hóa, sự việc trở nên dễ hiểu hơn.

Looking through a cultural lens, the event becomes easier to understand.

Metaphorical use of 'lăng kính' (lens).

7

Họ nhìn nhận sự thất bại như một bài học quý giá.

They perceive failure as a valuable lesson.

Sophisticated reframing of a situation.

8

Đừng để những định kiến làm mờ đi cái nhìn của bạn.

Don't let prejudices cloud your vision.

Abstract warning about perception.

1

Nhìn nhận một cách biện chứng, mọi sự vật đều biến đổi.

Perceiving dialectically, all things change.

Philosophical/Academic register.

2

Cái nhìn thấu thị của nhà văn đã lột tả được bản chất xã hội.

The writer's clairvoyant/insightful vision portrayed the essence of society.

Advanced literary criticism.

3

Chúng ta không thể nhìn nhận vấn đề một cách phiến diện.

We cannot perceive the problem in a one-sided manner.

Critical thinking terminology.

4

Nhìn vào chiều dài lịch sử, đây chỉ là một khoảnh khắc.

Looking at the span of history, this is but a moment.

Macro-scale perspective.

5

Sự nhìn nhận khắt khe của dư luận đã gây áp lực lớn.

The harsh perception of public opinion has caused great pressure.

Sociological context.

6

Nhìn vào bản chất, sự việc không đơn giản như vậy.

Looking at the essence, the matter is not that simple.

Analytical depth.

7

Cái nhìn của ông mang tính thời đại sâu sắc.

His vision possesses profound contemporary relevance.

High-level intellectual praise.

8

Nhìn thấu mọi hỉ nộ ái ố của cuộc đời.

To see through all the joy, anger, love, and hate of life.

Sino-Vietnamese idiomatic usage.

المرادفات

Xem Ngắm Trông Liếc Quan sát Nhòm Ngó Thấy

الأضداد

Nhắm Lờ Quay đi

تلازمات شائعة

Nhìn chằm chằm
Nhìn thấy
Nhìn kỹ
Nhìn qua
Nhìn lại
Nhìn vào
Nhìn nhận
Nhìn lén
Nhìn chung
Tầm nhìn

العبارات الشائعة

Nhìn cái gì mà nhìn?

— What are you looking at? (Often used aggressively or playfully).

Nhìn cái gì mà nhìn? Chưa thấy người đẹp bao giờ à?

Nhìn kìa!

— Look there! / Look at that!

Nhìn kìa! Có máy bay!

Cứ nhìn mà xem.

— Just wait and see. (Implying a prediction will come true).

Anh ấy sẽ thất bại thôi, cứ nhìn mà xem.

Nhìn mặt mà bắt hình dong.

— Don't judge a book by its cover (but usually implies the opposite: judging by appearance).

Đừng có nhìn mặt mà bắt hình dong, anh ấy hiền lắm.

Nhìn xa trông rộng.

— To have foresight or a broad vision.

Lãnh đạo cần phải nhìn xa trông rộng.

Nhìn đời bằng con mắt khác.

— To see the world in a different way.

Sau chuyến đi, tôi nhìn đời bằng con mắt khác.

Nhìn không ra.

— Cannot recognize someone/something.

Bạn trang điểm đậm quá, tôi nhìn không ra.

Nhìn cho biết.

— Look just to know/see what it's like.

Vào xem thử cho nhìn cho biết thôi.

Nhìn thấu tâm can.

— To see through someone's soul/feelings.

Mẹ luôn nhìn thấu tâm can của tôi.

Nhìn đâu cũng thấy...

— Everywhere you look, you see...

Nhìn đâu cũng thấy rác.

يُخلط عادةً مع

nhìn vs Xem

Learners use 'nhìn' for movies/books, but 'xem' is correct for watching/reading.

nhìn vs Thấy

Learners use 'nhìn' when they mean they perceived something, but 'thấy' is the result.

nhìn vs Trông

Learners use 'nhìn' to describe how someone looks (appears), but 'trông' is better.

تعبيرات اصطلاحية

"Nhìn bằng nửa con mắt"

— To look down on someone with contempt.

Họ giàu nên nhìn chúng tôi bằng nửa con mắt.

Informal
"Nhìn gà hóa cuốc"

— To mistake one thing for another due to poor vision or confusion.

Trời tối quá nên tôi nhìn gà hóa cuốc.

Informal
"Nhìn trước ngó sau"

— To be careful and observant of one's surroundings.

Sang đường phải nhìn trước ngó sau.

Neutral
"Nhìn mặt gửi vàng"

— To choose a trustworthy person to entrust something valuable to.

Chọn đối tác phải biết nhìn mặt gửi vàng.

Neutral
"Mắt không nhìn tâm không phiền"

— Out of sight, out of mind.

Thôi đừng nhắc nữa, mắt không nhìn tâm không phiền.

Neutral
"Nhìn lên không bằng ai, nhìn xuống không ai bằng mình"

— Looking up I'm behind many, looking down many are behind me (Be content with what you have).

Đừng buồn, nhìn lên không bằng ai, nhìn xuống không ai bằng mình.

Neutral
"Ếch ngồi đáy giếng nhìn trời bằng vung"

— A frog at the bottom of a well sees the sky as the size of a lid (Ignorant people think they know everything).

Đừng có kiêu ngạo như ếch ngồi đáy giếng nhìn trời bằng vung.

Informal
"Nhìn người qua khe cửa"

— To have a narrow, biased view of someone.

Đừng nhìn người qua khe cửa mà đánh giá sai.

Neutral
"Nhìn đời qua lăng kính hồng"

— To look at life through rose-colored glasses.

Cô ấy luôn nhìn đời qua lăng kính hồng.

Neutral
"Nhìn tận mắt, bắt tận tay"

— To see with one's own eyes and catch with one's own hands (Direct evidence).

Tôi phải nhìn tận mắt, bắt tận tay mới tin.

Informal

سهل الخلط

nhìn vs Nhịn

Similar spelling and sound.

Nhìn (falling tone) means to look. Nhịn (low tone) means to endure or refrain from something (like food).

Tôi nhịn đói (I endure hunger) vs. Tôi nhìn đói (I look at hunger - makes little sense).

nhìn vs Nhín

Similar sound.

Nhín (rising tone) means to stint or set aside a small portion.

Nhín một ít tiền (Set aside a little money).

nhìn vs Nhân

Phonetic similarity for some beginners.

Nhân means 'human' or 'cause'. Nhìn is 'to look'.

Nhân dân (People) vs. Nhìn dân (Look at the people).

nhìn vs Nín

Similar ending sound.

Nín means to stop crying or hold one's breath.

Nín đi (Stop crying).

nhìn vs Nhìn thấy vs. Trông thấy

Both mean 'to see'.

Nhìn thấy is more common in the North; Trông thấy is very common and slightly more informal/natural in many contexts.

Tôi nhìn thấy/trông thấy anh ấy.

أنماط الجُمل

A1

Nhìn + Object

Nhìn con chó kìa.

A1

Đừng + nhìn

Đừng nhìn tôi.

A2

Nhìn + thấy + Object

Tôi nhìn thấy ngôi nhà.

A2

Nhìn + Direction

Nhìn qua cửa sổ.

B1

Nhìn + Adverb

Nhìn kỹ vào đây.

B1

Nhìn chung, + Clause

Nhìn chung, bài thi khá khó.

B2

Nhìn nhận + Issue

Chúng ta cần nhìn nhận sai lầm.

C1

Cái nhìn + Adjective

Một cái nhìn mới mẻ.

عائلة الكلمة

الأسماء

Cái nhìn (The look/perspective)
Tầm nhìn (Vision/Outlook)
Ánh nhìn (The gaze/glance)

الأفعال

Nhìn nhận (To perceive/recognize)
Nhìn thấu (To see through)
Nhìn lại (To reflect/look back)

الصفات

Dễ nhìn (Good-looking/Easy on the eyes)
Khó nhìn (Hard to look at/Ugly)

مرتبط

Mắt (Eye)
Thị giác (Vision/Sense of sight)
Kính (Glasses)
Gương (Mirror)
Ánh sáng (Light)

كيفية الاستخدام

frequency

Extremely frequent in both spoken and written Vietnamese.

أخطاء شائعة
  • Using 'nhìn' for watching movies. Use 'xem'.

    Movies are activities that unfold over time. 'Nhìn' is for a static look.

  • Saying 'nhìn' to mean 'to see'. Use 'nhìn thấy'.

    English 'see' is often the result. In Vietnamese, 'nhìn' is just the action.

  • Using 'nhìn' for 'to look like'. Use 'trông' or 'nhìn có vẻ'.

    'Nhìn' is an action you do. 'Trông' is how you appear to others.

  • Mispronouncing the tone as 'nhín' (rising). Use the low falling 'huyền' tone.

    'Nhín' means to stint, which will confuse people.

  • Using 'nhìn' for reading books. Use 'đọc' or 'xem'.

    You don't just look at a book; you read the content.

نصائح

Verb-Direction Pattern

Always remember that Vietnamese verbs often take a direction word. 'Nhìn lên' (up), 'nhìn xuống' (down), 'nhìn ra' (out), 'nhìn vào' (in). This makes your speech much more natural.

Master the 'NH'

Place your tongue flat against the roof of your mouth to make the 'nh' sound. It is not like the English 'n'. It's closer to the 'ny' in 'onion'.

Use 'Ngắm' for Beauty

If you are looking at a sunset, a beautiful girl, or a flower, use 'ngắm'. It shows you are enjoying the view. 'Nhìn' is too neutral for beautiful things.

Eye Contact

In Vietnam, don't stare too long at elders or superiors. A brief look followed by a slight bow or looking down is considered more respectful.

Nhìn vs. Thấy

Think of 'nhìn' as the process and 'thấy' as the result. If you look (nhìn) but the room is dark, you might not see (thấy) anything.

Nhìn kìa!

Use this phrase often to point things out. It's a great way to engage with locals and show you're paying attention to your surroundings.

Nhìn chung

Use 'Nhìn chung' to start your concluding sentences in essays. It acts like 'In conclusion' or 'Overall'.

Tone Context

If someone says 'nhìn' quickly, the tone might be subtle. Look for visual cues; if they are pointing, they definitely mean 'look'.

Dòm

In the South, 'dòm' is used very frequently. 'Dòm cái gì?' is a common casual way to say 'What are you looking at?'

Rhyme Time

Rhyme 'nhìn' with 'tình' (love). 'Nhìn với tình' - looking with love. This helps you remember the tone and the sound.

احفظها

وسيلة تذكّر

Think of 'NH' as 'New Horizons' and 'IN' as 'IN sight'. You are looking at New Horizons In sight.

ربط بصري

Visualize a pair of binoculars. When you use them, you 'nhìn' through them to see things far away.

Word Web

Mắt Thấy Xem Ngắm Kính Ảnh Gương Bảng

تحدٍّ

Try to use 'nhìn' in three different directions today: Nhìn lên, nhìn xuống, and nhìn vào gương.

أصل الكلمة

Pure Vietnamese word (Từ thuần Việt). It has been part of the language for centuries.

المعنى الأصلي: To direct the eyes toward something.

Austroasiatic

السياق الثقافي

Avoid 'nhìn chằm chằm' (staring) at strangers in Vietnam as it can be perceived as aggressive or rude.

English speakers often say 'I see' to mean 'I understand'. In Vietnamese, you'd say 'Tôi hiểu' rather than 'Tôi nhìn'.

The song 'Nhìn Những Mùa Thu Đi' by Trịnh Công Sơn. The proverb 'Nhìn mặt mà bắt hình dong'. Common movie title trope: 'Nhìn lại quá khứ'.

تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية

سياقات واقعية

Directions

  • Nhìn bên trái
  • Nhìn bên phải
  • Nhìn thẳng
  • Nhìn lên trên

Classroom

  • Nhìn lên bảng
  • Nhìn vào sách
  • Nhìn tôi giải thích
  • Đừng nhìn bài bạn

Socializing

  • Nhìn bạn vui quá
  • Nhìn tôi này
  • Đừng nhìn tôi cười
  • Nhìn kìa, anh ấy đến rồi

Shopping

  • Cho tôi nhìn thử
  • Nhìn cái này đẹp không?
  • Chỉ nhìn thôi, không mua
  • Nhìn kỹ nhãn mác

Safety

  • Nhìn đường kìa
  • Nhìn xe cộ
  • Nhìn trước ngó sau
  • Nhìn biển báo

بدايات محادثة

"Bạn đang nhìn cái gì vậy?"

"Bạn có nhìn thấy điện thoại của tôi không?"

"Nhìn bức tranh này, bạn cảm thấy thế nào?"

"Nhìn kìa, đằng kia có chuyện gì thế?"

"Bạn nhìn nhận thế nào về vấn đề này?"

مواضيع للكتابة اليومية

Hôm nay bạn đã nhìn thấy điều gì đẹp nhất?

Hãy mô tả những gì bạn nhìn thấy từ cửa sổ phòng mình.

Tại sao đôi khi chúng ta nhìn nhưng không thực sự thấy?

Nhìn lại một năm qua, bạn đã học được điều gì?

Bạn thích ngắm nhìn cảnh vật nào nhất vào buổi sáng?

الأسئلة الشائعة

10 أسئلة

Not directly. You should say 'Trông bạn đẹp quá' or 'Nhìn bạn có vẻ đẹp'. Using 'nhìn' alone sounds like you are performing the action of looking, not describing an appearance.

'Nhìn' is for a specific point or object (look at the board). 'Xem' is for watching an event or reading content (watch a movie, read a book). For example, 'nhìn tivi' means looking at the physical TV box, while 'xem tivi' means watching a program.

It is neutral. You can use it in any situation, from talking to a baby to presenting in a professional meeting. For very formal observation, use 'quan sát'.

It depends. You can say 'nhìn tôi' (look at me) directly. However, using 'vào' (nhìn vào tôi) adds emphasis or direction. It is more flexible than English 'look at'.

The most common way is 'nhìn thấy'. 'Thấy' alone is also used, but 'nhìn thấy' emphasizes that you were looking and then saw it.

It means 'generally speaking' or 'overall'. It's a very common way to start a summary or give a general opinion.

Yes, in phrases like 'nhìn người' (to judge/evaluate a person) or 'nhìn nhận' (to perceive/evaluate a situation).

'Kìa' means 'over there'. 'Nhìn kìa' is a very common way to say 'Look over there!' or 'Check that out!'

Extremely. If you use the wrong tone, it can mean 'to refrain' (nhịn) or 'to stint' (nhín). The 'huyền' tone is low and falling.

It means 'to peek' or 'to look secretly'. 'Lén' means secretly or stealthily.

اختبر نفسك 200 أسئلة

writing

Write a sentence using 'nhìn' and 'con mèo'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence using 'nhìn thấy'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence telling someone 'Don't look at me'.

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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence using 'nhìn kỹ'.

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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Use 'nhìn chung' to start a sentence about the weather.

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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'Look at the sky'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'I see a bird'.

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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence about looking through a window.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence using the idiom 'nhìn chằm chằm'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Describe a visionary leader using 'nhìn xa trông rộng'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence about reflecting on the past using 'nhìn lại'.

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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'Don't judge a book by its cover' using the Vietnamese equivalent.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence about looking into someone's eyes.

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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Use 'nhìn nhận' in a professional context.

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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence about peeking.

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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'Overall, the food is delicious'.

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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence about a beautiful view using 'ngắm' instead of 'nhìn'.

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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Translate: 'Look left then look right'.

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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence about recognizing a mistake.

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صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Use 'nhìn thấu' in a sentence about understanding someone.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Look at me' in Vietnamese.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Look over there!'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Ask 'What are you looking at?'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'I can't see the board'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Look carefully at this'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Ask 'Do you see my phone?'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Generally, it's okay'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Don't stare at me'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'I look through the window'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Look left and right before crossing'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Describe a beautiful flower using 'ngắm'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'I don't recognize you'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'We should reflect on our mistakes'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Look into my eyes'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Look, it's raining!'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'I see an opportunity'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Don't look back'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'He has a broad vision'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Look up at the stars'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Stop peeking!'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Identify the tone in the word 'nhìn'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Does 'nhìn' rhyme with 'mình' or 'mới'?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

In the phrase 'nhìn thấy', which word is the result?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'Nhìn kìa!'. Is it a question or an exclamation?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Does 'nhìn' start with a dental or palatal sound?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Distinguish: 'nhìn' vs 'nhịn'. Which one means 'to look'?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Is 'nhìn' a long or short syllable?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Tôi nhìn bạn'. Who is doing the looking?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Nhìn lên'. Is the direction up or down?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Nhìn lén'. Is the look open or secret?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Nhìn chung'. Is this specific or general?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Nhìn kỹ'. Is the look quick or detailed?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Đừng nhìn'. Is it a command to look or not look?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Nhìn thấu'. Does it imply understanding?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Nhìn gà hóa cuốc'. Is the person seeing accurately?

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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