At the A1 level, 'bơi' is introduced as a basic action verb. Learners focus on its primary meaning: to move in water. The emphasis is on simple subject-verb constructions like 'Tôi bơi' (I swim) or 'Con cá bơi' (The fish swims). At this stage, learners should also memorize the phrase 'đi bơi' (to go swimming) and 'biết bơi' (to know how to swim). Vocabulary is limited to common locations like 'hồ bơi' (swimming pool) and 'biển' (sea). The goal is to be able to express basic preferences, such as 'Tôi thích bơi' (I like swimming) and ask simple questions like 'Bạn có biết bơi không?' (Do you know how to swim?). Grammar is kept minimal, focusing on present actions and basic ability. Exercises at this level often involve matching the word 'bơi' with images of water or people in pools. It is one of the essential 'hobby' verbs taught in introductory Vietnamese courses.
At the A2 level, the use of 'bơi' expands to include more descriptive elements and slightly more complex sentence structures. Learners begin to use adverbs of frequency and time, such as 'Tôi đi bơi hai lần một tuần' (I go swimming twice a week). They also learn to specify the swimming style in a basic way, such as 'bơi ếch' (breaststroke). The context moves from just 'swimming' to 'swimming because...' (e.g., 'Tôi đi bơi vì trời nóng' - I go swimming because it's hot). At A2, learners should also be able to describe the environment of the swim, using adjectives like 'nước trong' (clear water) or 'hồ bơi rộng' (large pool). Prepositions become more important, specifically 'ở' (at/in) and 'với' (with). For example, 'Tôi đi bơi ở hồ bơi với bạn' (I go swimming at the pool with friends). The focus shifts toward basic social interactions involving the word.
At the B1 level, learners transition from simple descriptions to talking about experiences, health benefits, and future plans involving 'bơi.' They can discuss swimming as a form of exercise: 'Bơi lội rất tốt cho sức khỏe và tim mạch' (Swimming is very good for health and the cardiovascular system). The compound word 'bơi lội' is used more frequently to denote the activity as a whole. B1 learners start to use 'bơi' in complex sentences with conjunctions like 'mặc dù' (although) or 'nếu' (if). For instance, 'Nếu tôi có thời gian, tôi sẽ đi bơi' (If I have time, I will go swimming). They also begin to understand the metaphorical use of 'bơi' in common idioms, though they might not use them fluently yet. The vocabulary expands to include equipment like 'kính bơi' (goggles) and 'quần áo bơi' (swimsuit). Discussions might include safety, such as 'cứu đuối' (drowning prevention).
At the B2 level, 'bơi' is used in more specialized and abstract contexts. Learners can discuss competitive swimming, techniques, and the history of the sport in Vietnam. They understand the nuances between 'bơi,' 'lặn' (diving), and 'lướt sóng' (surfing). At this level, the metaphorical use of 'bơi' becomes more common. A learner might describe a difficult situation by saying, 'Tôi đang bơi giữa một biển thông tin' (I am swimming in a sea of information). They are comfortable using 'bơi' in all tenses and moods, including the passive voice and conditional sentences. They can also differentiate between regional usages, such as why a Southerner might say 'lội' when they mean 'bơi.' Their vocabulary includes specific terms like 'đường bơi' (lane), 'khởi động' (warm up), and 'thể lực' (stamina). They can read news articles about swimming championships and summarize them effectively.
At the C1 level, 'bơi' is integrated into a sophisticated command of the language. The learner uses the word effortlessly in literary, academic, and professional contexts. They can appreciate and use wordplay involving 'bơi.' For example, they might use 'bơi' to describe the fluid motion of a dancer or the way a pen moves across paper in a poetic sense. They understand the etymological roots and the cultural significance of water-based verbs in Vietnamese history. C1 learners can engage in deep discussions about the environmental impact on Vietnam's 'sông nước' culture and how the act of 'bơi' has changed from a survival skill to a luxury leisure activity in urban areas. They can interpret complex idioms like 'bơi ngược dòng' (swimming against the current) in political or social contexts, discussing non-conformity and resilience. Their speech is nuanced, using 'bơi' as a tool for vivid imagery.
At the C2 level, 'bơi' is used with the precision of a native speaker, including mastery over its most obscure and classical references. The learner can use 'bơi' in creative writing, poetry, and high-level rhetoric. They understand the subtle rhythmic properties of the word in Vietnamese 'lục bát' poetry or traditional folk songs (ca dao). At this level, 'bơi' can be used to describe the vastness of the mind or the cosmos ('bơi trong bể khổ' - swimming in the sea of suffering, a Buddhist concept). The learner is fully aware of the historical evolution of the word and its cognates in other Austroasiatic languages. They can debate the merits of different swimming pedagogical methods in Vietnamese or write a technical manual on hydrodynamics using the word. The word 'bơi' is no longer just a verb; it is a versatile semantic unit that the learner can manipulate to express the finest shades of meaning, emotion, and philosophy.

bơi in 30 Sekunden

  • 'Bơi' means to swim.
  • It is a common verb for hobbies and sports.
  • It is used for both humans and animals.
  • It appears in many idioms about life's struggles.
The Vietnamese word bơi primarily translates to the English verb 'to swim.' At its most fundamental level, it describes the physical action of humans or animals moving through water by using their limbs or fins. However, in the rich tapestry of the Vietnamese language, bơi carries cultural weight that extends beyond a simple leisure activity or sport. Vietnam is a country defined by its relationship with water, possessing over 3,000 kilometers of coastline and a dense network of rivers, particularly in the Mekong and Red River Deltas. Consequently, bơi is one of the first verbs a Vietnamese child might encounter, often associated with safety, survival, and daily life in rural areas.
Physical Action
The most common use involves moving in a pool, river, or sea. Example: 'Tôi đang bơi' (I am swimming).
Rowing or Paddling
In certain contexts, particularly in the South, 'bơi' can refer to rowing a small boat (bơi xuồng), highlighting the word's connection to aquatic navigation.
Metaphorical Struggle
It is used to describe someone struggling to keep up with work or life, much like 'treading water' or 'swimming against the tide' in English.
When you use this word, you are tapping into a vital part of Vietnamese identity. For a person in the Mekong Delta, bơi is not just a hobby; it is a necessity. During the flood season (mùa nước nổi), the ability to swim is what keeps communities safe. In urban settings like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, 'đi bơi' (going swimming) is a popular way to escape the sweltering tropical heat.

Trẻ em ở vùng quê thường biết bơi từ rất sớm để tự bảo vệ mình trong mùa lũ.

This sentence illustrates the functional necessity of the word. Furthermore, the word appears in sports contexts, specifically 'bơi lội,' which is the formal term for the sport of swimming. If you are watching the SEA Games, you will hear commentators shouting 'bơi' as athletes approach the finish line. Understanding 'bơi' requires understanding the environment of Vietnam. It is not just an exercise; it is a dialogue with the environment. Whether it is a buffalo 'bơi' across a river or a student 'bơi' through a pile of homework, the core concept of navigating a fluid, challenging medium remains constant. The word is phonetically simple—a single syllable with a level tone (ngang)—making it accessible yet profound in its utility. In everyday conversation, you will use it to invite friends ('Đi bơi không?'), to describe your skills ('Tôi không biết bơi'), or to talk about vacation plans ('Chúng tôi sẽ đi bơi ở biển Nha Trang'). This versatility makes it an essential building block for any A1 learner.
Using bơi in a sentence is straightforward because it follows standard Vietnamese SVO (Subject-Verb-Object) structure, though as an intransitive verb, it often doesn't require a direct object unless you are specifying a distance or a style. However, to sound natural, you must master the auxiliary words that accompany it.
The Activity Marker 'Đi'
Just like 'go swimming' in English, Vietnamese uses 'đi bơi.' You don't just 'swim' on the weekend; you 'go swim.' Example: 'Cuối tuần tôi hay đi bơi.'
Ability with 'Biết'
To say you 'can' swim, use 'biết' (to know how to). 'Tôi biết bơi' is more common than 'Tôi có thể bơi.'
When describing the location, the preposition 'ở' (at/in) is essential. For instance, 'Bơi ở hồ' (swim in the pool) or 'Bơi ở biển' (swim in the sea). You can also combine it with directionals. 'Bơi ra' means to swim out (away from shore), while 'bơi vào' means to swim in.

Anh ấy có thể bơi liên tục trong hai giờ đồng hồ mà không thấy mệt.

In more advanced usage, 'bơi' is paired with styles: 'bơi sải' (freestyle/crawl), 'bơi ếch' (breaststroke - literally 'frog swim'), 'bơi bướm' (butterfly), and 'bơi ngửa' (backstroke). If you are talking about a fish, you would say 'Con cá đang bơi.' If you are talking about a person struggling, you might say 'Tôi đang bơi trong đống bài tập' (I am swimming in a pile of homework). To negate the action, simply add 'không' before the verb: 'Tôi không bơi.' To ask a question, use the '...không?' structure at the end: 'Bạn biết bơi không?' (Do you know how to swim?). This simplicity allows for rapid expansion into complex thoughts. For example, 'Mặc dù trời lạnh, anh ấy vẫn muốn đi bơi' (Even though it's cold, he still wants to go swimming). Here, 'bơi' acts as the stable core of the sentence. You can also use it in the passive or causative sense, such as 'Cho con đi học bơi' (Send the child to swimming lessons). The term 'học bơi' (learn to swim) is a high-frequency phrase in Vietnam, as parents are increasingly conscious of water safety. By mastering these patterns, you move from a basic understanding to a functional ability to communicate about physical activities, sports, and safety.
In Vietnam, you will encounter the word bơi in a variety of settings, ranging from the mundane to the highly formal. One of the most common places is at a 'hồ bơi' (swimming pool). In major cities like Saigon, public pools are social hubs. You will hear lifeguards shouting instructions, parents encouraging their children ('Bơi tiếp đi con!' - Keep swimming, child!), and friends challenging each other.
At the Beach
In coastal towns like Da Nang or Nha Trang, 'bơi' is everywhere. Warning signs might say 'Cấm bơi ở đây' (No swimming here) due to dangerous currents.
In Schools
Physical education (thể dục) classes often include 'môn bơi lội' (the subject of swimming). Teachers will use technical terms like 'nhịp thở' (breathing rhythm) alongside 'bơi.'
On television, sports commentators use 'bơi' during the Olympic Games or regional competitions. Vietnam has produced world-class swimmers like Nguyễn Thị Ánh Viên, and during her races, the word 'bơi' was repeated frantically by millions of fans.

Mùa hè này, chúng ta hãy cùng nhau đi bơi để giải nhiệt nhé!

In the Mekong Delta, the word takes on a more traditional flavor. You might hear elders talking about 'bơi xuồng' (paddling a sampan) to get to the market. While modern engines are replacing manual paddling, the linguistic connection remains. You'll also hear it in news reports concerning the rainy season, where 'biết bơi' is cited as a critical skill for disaster preparedness. In pop culture, songs about childhood often mention 'bơi sông' (swimming in the river), evoking a sense of nostalgia for a simpler, rural life. Even in the workplace, a manager might say a team is 'đang bơi' if they are overwhelmed by a project, using the word as a vivid metaphor for struggling to stay afloat. This wide range of contexts—from survival to elite sports to corporate metaphors—shows that 'bơi' is deeply embedded in the Vietnamese consciousness. For a learner, hearing 'bơi' is a signal of activity, movement, and often, a connection to the natural environment of Vietnam.
While bơi seems like a simple word, English speakers often make several nuanced mistakes when incorporating it into Vietnamese. The most frequent error involves the distinction between 'bơi' and 'lặn.' In English, 'swimming' can sometimes be a broad term, but in Vietnamese, 'bơi' is strictly on or near the surface. If you go underwater, you must use 'lặn' (to dive/snorkel). Saying 'Tôi bơi dưới nước' (I swim under water) is grammatically okay but less natural than 'Tôi lặn.'
Confusing 'Bơi' and 'Lội'
As mentioned, 'lội' usually means to wade or walk through water. However, in Southern dialects, 'lội' is often used for swimming. Learners might get confused when a local says 'đi lội' instead of 'đi bơi.' Stick to 'bơi' in formal settings.
Preposition Errors
English speakers often say 'Bơi trong hồ' (Swim in the pool). While 'trong' is technically correct, Vietnamese people almost always use 'ở' (at/in) for locations. 'Bơi ở hồ' sounds much more native.
Another mistake is the misuse of 'biết' vs 'có thể.' In English, 'I can swim' can mean either 'I have the skill' or 'I am allowed to right now.' In Vietnamese, if you mean you have the skill, you must use 'biết bơi.' Using 'có thể bơi' sounds like you are discussing physical possibility (e.g., 'The water is warm enough that I can swim').

Sai: Tôi thích bơi sông. Đúng: Tôi thích bơi ở sông.

Notice the importance of the preposition 'ở.' Vietnamese is a preposition-heavy language when it comes to location. Also, learners often forget the 'đi' in 'đi bơi.' While 'Tôi bơi mỗi ngày' (I swim every day) is correct, 'Tôi đi bơi mỗi ngày' emphasizes the activity as a routine or outing, which is more common. Finally, watch out for the pronunciation. 'Bơi' has a level tone. If you accidentally use a rising tone ('bới'), it means 'to dig' or 'to scratch' (like a chicken). If you use a falling tone ('bời'), it doesn't mean much on its own but is part of 'tơi bời' (in tatters). Keep the tone flat and steady to ensure you are talking about water and not digging in the dirt!
While bơi is the go-to verb for swimming, Vietnamese offers several alternatives depending on the nuance, formality, and regional dialect. Understanding these will help you sound more sophisticated and understand locals better.
Bơi lội
This is a compound word. 'Lội' means to wade. Together, 'bơi lội' refers to the general activity or sport of swimming. It is more formal than just 'bơi.' Use this when talking about swimming as a health benefit or a school subject.
Lội
Strictly speaking, 'lội' is to walk through water (wade). However, in the Mekong Delta, people say 'đi lội' to mean swimming in the river. If you are in the North, 'lội' almost always means wading through a flood or a puddle.
Ngụp lặn
This means to bob up and down or to dive. It is often used figuratively to describe someone working very hard or struggling through something. 'Ngụp lặn trong cuộc sống' (Struggling through life).
Another related term is 'vùng vẫy,' which means to thrash about or struggle in water. This is used when someone doesn't know how to swim well or is trying to escape something. For animals, we use 'bơi,' but for birds in the air, we use 'bay.' Interestingly, 'bơi' is also used for the motion of rowing a boat with oars ('bơi chèo' or 'bơi xuồng').

Thay vì nói 'Tôi đang bơi', bạn có thể nói 'Tôi đang tập bơi lội' để nghe có vẻ chuyên nghiệp hơn.

Comparing 'bơi' to 'trôi' (to float/drift) is also useful. 'Trôi' is passive; the water moves you. 'Bơi' is active; you move yourself. If you are just lying on your back in the water, you might say 'tôi đang nổi' (I am floating). When discussing fish, 'bơi' is the only word used. For ships, we use 'chạy' (run) or 'đi' (go), not 'bơi.' This is a common mistake for learners who think anything in water 'swims.' Ships 'run' (tàu chạy) on the water. By distinguishing 'bơi' from 'lội,' 'lặn,' and 'chạy,' you gain a precise control over Vietnamese verbs of motion.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

"Môn bơi lội giúp phát triển thể chất toàn diện."

Neutral

"Tôi thường đi bơi vào buổi chiều."

Informell

"Đi bơi không mày?"

Child friendly

"Con cá bơi tung tăng trong bể kìa!"

Umgangssprache

"Đang bơi trong đống deadline đây."

Wusstest du?

In old Vietnamese, 'bơi' and 'chèo' (to row) were often used interchangeably because swimming and rowing were the two primary ways to navigate the country's vast waterways.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ɓəːj/
US /ɓəːj/
Vietnamese is a tonal language; each syllable has equal stress, but the tone must be maintained.
Reimt sich auf
nơi chơi mời phơi rơi vơi đời khơi
Häufige Fehler
  • Using a rising tone (bới) which means to dig.
  • Using a falling tone (bời) which changes the meaning.
  • Pronouncing 'ơi' as 'oy' like in 'boy' (the Vietnamese 'ơ' is more central).

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 1/5

The word is short and uses common characters, making it very easy to recognize.

Schreiben 1/5

Simple spelling with only one vowel-diacritic combination.

Sprechen 2/5

The level tone is easy, but the 'ơi' diphthong requires some practice for English speakers.

Hören 1/5

Distinct sound that is easy to catch in conversation.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

nước (water) tôi (I) biết (know) đi (go) không (no/question)

Als Nächstes lernen

lặn (dive) biển (sea) hồ (lake/pool) thể thao (sport) giỏi (good at)

Fortgeschritten

ngược dòng (upstream) thủy triều (tide) đuối nước (drowning) vận động viên (athlete) kỷ lục (record)

Wichtige Grammatik

Using 'đang' for continuous actions.

Tôi đang bơi (I am swimming).

Using 'biết' for skills.

Tôi biết bơi (I know how to swim).

Using 'ở' for location.

Bơi ở hồ (Swim in the pool).

Using 'rất' for intensity.

Bơi rất nhanh (Swim very fast).

Negative imperative 'đừng'.

Đừng bơi ra xa (Don't swim far out).

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

Tôi thích bơi.

I like to swim.

Subject + Verb 'thích' + Verb 'bơi'.

2

Con cá đang bơi.

The fish is swimming.

'Đang' indicates a continuous action.

3

Bạn biết bơi không?

Do you know how to swim?

'Biết' + Verb + 'không' is the standard question for ability.

4

Hôm nay tôi đi bơi.

Today I go swimming.

'Đi bơi' is the common phrase for the activity.

5

Hồ bơi này rất đẹp.

This swimming pool is very beautiful.

'Hồ bơi' is the noun for swimming pool.

6

Em bé tập bơi.

The baby practices swimming.

'Tập' means to practice or train.

7

Chúng tôi bơi ở biển.

We swim at the sea.

'Ở' is the preposition for location.

8

Tôi không biết bơi.

I don't know how to swim.

'Không' negates the verb 'biết'.

1

Tôi đi bơi vào mỗi buổi sáng.

I go swimming every morning.

Frequency phrase 'vào mỗi buổi sáng' added.

2

Anh ấy bơi rất nhanh.

He swims very fast.

Adverbial phrase 'rất nhanh' follows the verb.

3

Bạn có muốn đi bơi với tôi không?

Do you want to go swimming with me?

'Muốn' (want) + 'với tôi' (with me).

4

Trời nóng quá, đi bơi thôi!

It's too hot, let's go swimming!

'Thôi' at the end acts as an exhortation.

5

Tôi đang học bơi ếch.

I am learning breaststroke.

'Bơi ếch' is a specific compound for a swimming style.

6

Hồ bơi mở cửa lúc mấy giờ?

What time does the swimming pool open?

Question about time regarding the location.

7

Đừng bơi ở chỗ sâu.

Don't swim in deep places.

'Đừng' is used for negative commands.

8

Tôi cần mua kính bơi mới.

I need to buy new swimming goggles.

'Kính bơi' is the noun for goggles.

1

Bơi lội là một môn thể thao tuyệt vời.

Swimming is a wonderful sport.

'Bơi lội' used as a formal noun/sport.

2

Trước khi bơi, bạn nên khởi động kỹ.

Before swimming, you should warm up carefully.

'Khởi động' means to warm up.

3

Tôi bơi được 500 mét sáng nay.

I was able to swim 500 meters this morning.

'Được' indicates achievement or result.

4

Trẻ em nên được học bơi từ nhỏ.

Children should be taught to swim from a young age.

Passive construction 'nên được học'.

5

Hồ bơi này có nước muối rất sạch.

This pool has salt water which is very clean.

Describing the type of water.

6

Nếu không biết bơi, bạn phải mặc áo phao.

If you don't know how to swim, you must wear a life jacket.

Conditional 'Nếu... thì...' (thì is implied).

7

Bơi giúp chúng ta giảm căng thẳng.

Swimming helps us reduce stress.

'Giảm căng thẳng' means to reduce stress.

8

Tôi thích bơi ở hồ hơn bơi ở biển.

I prefer swimming in a pool over swimming in the sea.

Comparison structure 'thích... hơn...'.

1

Vận động viên đang nỗ lực bơi về phía đích.

The athlete is striving to swim towards the finish line.

'Nỗ lực' means to make an effort.

2

Kỹ thuật bơi bướm đòi hỏi rất nhiều sức lực.

The butterfly swimming technique requires a lot of strength.

'Đòi hỏi' means to require/demand.

3

Cô ấy đã giành huy chương vàng môn bơi lội.

She won a gold medal in swimming.

'Giành huy chương vàng' is a formal sports phrase.

4

Bơi ngược dòng nước là một thử thách lớn.

Swimming against the current is a big challenge.

'Ngược dòng' means against the current.

5

Môi trường hồ bơi cần được khử trùng thường xuyên.

The pool environment needs to be disinfected regularly.

'Khử trùng' means to disinfect.

6

Anh ấy bơi giỏi đến mức ai cũng ngưỡng mộ.

He swims so well that everyone admires him.

'Đến mức' means to the extent that.

7

Việc học bơi không chỉ là sở thích mà còn là kỹ năng sinh tồn.

Learning to swim is not just a hobby but also a survival skill.

'Không chỉ... mà còn...' (not only... but also).

8

Hồ bơi vô cực này có tầm nhìn hướng ra biển.

This infinity pool has a view looking out to the sea.

'Hồ bơi vô cực' is infinity pool.

1

Anh ấy đang bơi trong mớ hỗn độn của các dự án.

He is swimming in a mess of projects.

Metaphorical use of 'bơi'.

2

Sự nghiệp của cô ấy như đang bơi ra biển lớn.

Her career is like swimming out to the great sea.

Simile describing professional growth.

3

Chúng ta không nên để mặc họ bơi giữa dòng đời.

We should not leave them to swim alone in the current of life.

Idiomatic phrase 'dòng đời' (current of life).

4

Vận động viên đã phá kỷ lục thế giới ở nội dung bơi tự do.

The athlete broke the world record in the freestyle swimming event.

'Phá kỷ lục' means to break a record.

5

Bơi lội giúp rèn luyện ý chí và sự kiên trì.

Swimming helps forge willpower and perseverance.

'Rèn luyện' means to train/forge.

6

Anh ta bơi trong tiền nhưng vẫn không thấy hạnh phúc.

He is swimming in money but still doesn't feel happy.

Idiom 'bơi trong tiền'.

7

Đừng để mình bị bơi trong những suy nghĩ tiêu cực.

Don't let yourself be overwhelmed (swim) by negative thoughts.

Passive metaphorical use.

8

Khả năng bơi lội của anh ấy đã đạt đến mức điêu luyện.

His swimming ability has reached a level of mastery.

'Điêu luyện' means masterly/proficient.

1

Trong cõi nhân sinh, mỗi người đều phải tự bơi để tồn tại.

In the human realm, everyone must swim for themselves to survive.

'Cõi nhân sinh' is a high-level term for human life.

2

Ngôn từ của ông ấy bơi lượn một cách uyển chuyển trong tâm trí độc giả.

His words swim gracefully in the minds of the readers.

'Bơi lượn' suggests graceful movement.

3

Sự tĩnh lặng của mặt hồ khiến việc bơi lội trở thành một hình thức thiền định.

The stillness of the lake surface turns swimming into a form of meditation.

'Thiền định' means meditation.

4

Hệ thống pháp lý phức tạp khiến các doanh nghiệp như đang bơi trong sương mù.

The complex legal system makes businesses feel like they are swimming in fog.

Metaphor for confusion and complexity.

5

Anh ấy đã bơi qua những thăng trầm của cuộc đời một cách bản lĩnh.

He swam through the ups and downs of life with courage.

'Thăng trầm' means ups and downs.

6

Văn hóa sông nước đã nhào nặn nên kỹ năng bơi lội bẩm sinh của người dân nơi đây.

The river culture has molded the innate swimming skills of the local people.

'Nhào nặn' means to mold/shape.

7

Đôi khi, bơi ngược dòng lại là cách duy nhất để tìm thấy chính mình.

Sometimes, swimming against the current is the only way to find oneself.

Philosophical use of 'ngược dòng'.

8

Tác phẩm văn học này là một cuộc bơi lội vào sâu thẳm tâm hồn con người.

This literary work is a swim into the depths of the human soul.

Abstract usage of 'cuộc bơi lội'.

Häufige Kollokationen

đi bơi
biết bơi
hồ bơi
bể bơi
học bơi
kính bơi
quần áo bơi
đường bơi
kiểu bơi
đội tuyển bơi

Häufige Phrasen

Bơi lội tung tăng

— Swimming around freely and happily, often used for fish.

Đàn cá bơi lội tung tăng dưới hồ.

Bơi lội giỏi

— To be good at swimming.

Anh ta bơi lội rất giỏi.

Đi bơi giải nhiệt

— Go swimming to cool down from the heat.

Trời nóng thế này, đi bơi giải nhiệt là nhất.

Dạy bơi

— To teach swimming.

Ba tôi dạy tôi bơi lúc tôi còn nhỏ.

Cuộc thi bơi

— A swimming competition.

Trường tôi tổ chức cuộc thi bơi hàng năm.

Bơi ra xa

— To swim far out.

Đừng bơi ra xa bờ quá.

Bơi vào bờ

— To swim back to shore.

Anh ấy đã bơi vào bờ an toàn.

Bơi qua sông

— To swim across a river.

Hồi nhỏ, tôi thường bơi qua sông chơi.

Bơi cùng cá

— To swim with fish.

Tôi thích lặn biển và bơi cùng cá.

Bơi lội mỗi ngày

— Swimming every day.

Bơi lội mỗi ngày giúp cơ thể dẻo dai.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

bơi vs bới

Means to dig or scratch, has a rising tone.

bơi vs bời

Part of 'tơi bời' (messy), has a falling tone.

bơi vs lặn

Means to dive or go underwater.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Bơi trong tiền"

— To be extremely wealthy.

Gia đình đó giàu lắm, họ bơi trong tiền.

Informal
"Bơi ngược dòng"

— To go against the majority or face great difficulty.

Anh ấy luôn chọn cách bơi ngược dòng để khẳng định mình.

Neutral
"Đuối sức khi bơi"

— To lose strength while swimming, often used for failing at a task.

Tôi cảm thấy mình đang đuối sức khi bơi trong dự án này.

Metaphorical
"Bơi giữa dòng đời"

— Struggling to survive in life.

Thân phận nhỏ bé bơi giữa dòng đời.

Literary
"Bơi xuồng"

— Actually refers to rowing, but used idiomatically for local travel in the South.

Bà con bơi xuồng đi chợ nổi.

Regional
"Bơi trong đống bài tập"

— Overwhelmed with homework.

Tôi đang bơi trong đống bài tập về nhà.

Informal
"Bơi lội trong biển khổ"

— A Buddhist-influenced term for suffering in life.

Con người bơi lội trong biển khổ nhân gian.

Philosophical
"Cá bơi ngược dòng là cá sống"

— Only those who struggle and go against the flow are truly alive/vibrant.

Hãy nhớ rằng cá bơi ngược dòng mới là cá sống.

Inspirational
"Bơi không ra hơi"

— Swimming until breathless, used for extreme exhaustion.

Tôi bơi không ra hơi sau ca làm việc.

Informal
"Bơi như rái cá"

— To swim very skillfully, like an otter.

Thằng bé đó bơi như rái cá vậy.

Simile

Leicht verwechselbar

bơi vs lội

Both involve water movement.

'Lội' is wading (walking in water), while 'bơi' is swimming (moving through water).

Tôi lội qua suối (I waded across the stream).

bơi vs trôi

Both involve movement in water.

'Trôi' is passive drifting, 'bơi' is active movement.

Bèo trôi trên sông (Duckweed drifts on the river).

bơi vs nổi

Both involve staying on the surface.

'Nổi' is floating without necessarily moving, 'bơi' involves propulsion.

Tôi đang nổi trên mặt nước (I am floating on the water).

bơi vs chèo

Both can be used for boats.

'Chèo' is specifically using oars, 'bơi' is a more general term for paddling in some regions.

Họ chèo thuyền (They row the boat).

bơi vs lướt

Both describe surface movement.

'Lướt' implies speed or gliding, often with equipment like a surfboard.

Anh ấy lướt sóng (He is surfing).

Satzmuster

A1

S + thích + bơi.

Tôi thích bơi.

A1

S + biết + bơi + không?

Bạn biết bơi không?

A2

S + đi + bơi + ở + Location.

Tôi đi bơi ở hồ.

A2

S + bơi + Adverb.

Anh ấy bơi rất giỏi.

B1

Bơi lội + là + Noun Phrase.

Bơi lội là môn thể thao tốt.

B1

Trước khi + bơi, + S + nên + Verb.

Trước khi bơi, bạn nên khởi động.

B2

S + bơi + được + Distance.

Tôi bơi được hai cây số.

B2

Không chỉ + bơi, + S + còn + Verb.

Không chỉ bơi, tôi còn chạy bộ.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

Verben

Adjektive

Verwandt

So verwendest du es

frequency

Extremely common in daily conversation and sports media.

Häufige Fehler
  • Tôi bơi hồ. Tôi bơi ở hồ.

    You need the preposition 'ở' to indicate the location in Vietnamese.

  • Tôi muốn bơi lặn. Tôi muốn đi lặn.

    If you are going underwater, use 'lặn' instead of 'bơi.'

  • Anh ấy bới rất giỏi. Anh ấy bơi rất giỏi.

    The rising tone on 'bới' changes the meaning to 'digging.'

  • Tôi có thể bơi. (meaning skill) Tôi biết bơi.

    'Biết' is used for learned skills like swimming or speaking a language.

  • Bơi xuồng is only for humans. N/A

    Actually, 'bơi xuồng' is a specific phrase for rowing a boat, not just humans swimming.

Tipps

Master the Tone

The level tone (ngang) is crucial. Practice keeping your pitch flat like a musical note held steady. This distinguishes 'bơi' from 'bới' (dig).

Regional Awareness

If you are in the Mekong Delta, don't be surprised if people use 'lội' for swimming. It's a hallmark of the Southern dialect.

Use 'Biết' for Skill

Always use 'biết bơi' when talking about the ability to swim. 'Có thể bơi' sounds like you are discussing physical possibility in a specific moment.

Learn Styles Early

If you go to a public pool, knowing 'bơi ếch' (breaststroke) is very useful as it's the most common style in Vietnam.

Warning Signs

Look for signs saying 'Cấm bơi' (Swimming Prohibited) at beaches or rivers, as currents can be very strong.

Health Benefits

Use 'bơi lội' when discussing fitness. It makes you sound more educated and formal.

Invitations

'Đi bơi không?' is a great, simple way to invite a Vietnamese friend to hang out.

Metaphorical Use

Don't be afraid to use 'bơi' when you feel overwhelmed at work. Locals will find your use of 'đang bơi' very idiomatic and funny.

The Word 'Kính'

'Kính' means glass or glasses. 'Kính bơi' literally means 'swimming glasses,' which is easy to remember.

Daily Routine

Try to label your swimming sessions in your calendar as 'Đi bơi' to reinforce the word in your daily life.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

'Bơi' sounds a bit like 'buoy' (a floating object). You swim ('bơi') to get to the 'buoy'!

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a person's arms moving in a circle, making the 'o' shape in 'bơi'.

Word Web

nước hồ bơi biển thể thao sức khỏe kính bơi áo tắm

Herausforderung

Try to use 'bơi' in three different sentences today: one about your ability, one about a plan, and one about an animal.

Wortherkunft

The word 'bơi' is of Austroasiatic origin, shared with other languages in the region. It has remained stable in the Vietnamese lexicon for centuries.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To move in water or to paddle a boat.

Austroasiatic -> Mon-Khmer -> Vietic.

Kultureller Kontext

Be aware that in some rural areas, 'bơi' might be associated with dangerous floods, so use the term sensitively if discussing natural disasters.

In Western cultures, swimming is often seen as a summer hobby or a competitive Olympic sport. In Vietnam, it has a deeper historical connection to survival and daily river life.

Nguyễn Thị Ánh Viên (Vietnam's most famous swimmer) The legend of Yết Kiêu (a hero who could swim underwater for days) The Mekong Delta flood season survival stories

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

At a hotel

  • Khách sạn có hồ bơi không?
  • Hồ bơi ở tầng mấy?
  • Tôi muốn thuê khăn tắm bơi.
  • Giờ mở cửa của hồ bơi là khi nào?

With a doctor

  • Tôi có nên đi bơi không?
  • Bơi lội có tốt cho lưng tôi không?
  • Tôi bị đau tai sau khi bơi.
  • Bác sĩ khuyên tôi nên tập bơi.

At the beach

  • Bơi ở đây có an toàn không?
  • Sóng mạnh quá, không nên bơi xa.
  • Tôi thích bơi lúc bình minh.
  • Cẩn thận khi bơi ở khu vực này.

In a sports class

  • Hôm nay chúng ta học bơi ếch.
  • Hãy hít thở đều khi bơi.
  • Bạn cần khởi động trước khi bơi.
  • Cố gắng bơi thêm một vòng nữa.

Socializing

  • Cuối tuần này đi bơi nhé?
  • Bạn biết bơi từ khi nào?
  • Tôi mới mua đồ bơi mới.
  • Hồ bơi đó nước rất sạch.

Gesprächseinstiege

"Bạn có thường xuyên đi bơi không?"

"Kiểu bơi yêu thích của bạn là gì?"

"Bạn thích bơi ở hồ bơi hay bơi ở biển hơn?"

"Ở thành phố này, hồ bơi nào là tốt nhất?"

"Bạn đã bao giờ thử bơi ngược dòng chưa?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Hôm nay tôi đã đi bơi và cảm thấy rất sảng khoái...

Tại sao việc biết bơi lại quan trọng đối với mọi người?

Kể về lần đầu tiên bạn học bơi.

Nếu có thể bơi như một loài cá, bạn sẽ chọn cá gì?

Cảm giác của bạn khi bơi giữa biển khơi bao la.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, 'bơi' applies to any living creature that moves through water, including fish, dogs, and ducks. For example: 'Con vịt đang bơi.'

'Bơi' is the verb for the action, while 'bơi lội' is a noun/verb compound that refers to the activity or sport more generally and formally.

The most natural way is 'Tôi đi bơi.'

Yes, you can use 'hồ bơi' or 'bể bơi.' 'Hồ bơi' is more common in the South, while 'bể bơi' is more common in the North.

Use 'bơi qua.' For example: 'Bơi qua sông' (to swim across the river).

In Southern Vietnam, 'bơi' is often used in the phrase 'bơi xuồng,' which means to paddle or row a small boat.

Bơi sải (freestyle), bơi ếch (breaststroke), bơi bướm (butterfly), and bơi ngửa (backstroke).

No, 'Bơi' is not a Vietnamese surname.

You can ask: 'Nước ở đây bơi được không?'

'Chìm' (to sink) is the physical opposite.

Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence saying 'I like swimming.'

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

Use 'Tôi' (I), 'thích' (like), and 'bơi' (swim).

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Use 'Tôi' (I), 'thích' (like), and 'bơi' (swim).

writing

Write a question asking 'Do you know how to swim?'

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

Use the 'biết... không' pattern.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Use the 'biết... không' pattern.

writing

Translate: 'The fish is swimming.'

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

'Con cá' (fish) + 'đang' (is) + 'bơi' (swimming).

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Con cá' (fish) + 'đang' (is) + 'bơi' (swimming).

writing

Write: 'I go swimming every weekend.'

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

'Cuối tuần' is weekend.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Cuối tuần' is weekend.

writing

Translate: 'He swims very fast.'

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

'Rất nhanh' is very fast.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Rất nhanh' is very fast.

writing

Write a sentence about the health benefits of swimming.

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

'Tốt cho sức khỏe' means good for health.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Tốt cho sức khỏe' means good for health.

writing

Translate: 'I need to buy new swimming goggles.'

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

'Kính bơi' is goggles, 'mới' is new.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Kính bơi' is goggles, 'mới' is new.

writing

Write a sentence using 'bơi ngược dòng'.

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

Swimming against the current is very difficult.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Swimming against the current is very difficult.

writing

Translate: 'Swimming is a survival skill.'

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

'Kỹ năng sinh tồn' is survival skill.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Kỹ năng sinh tồn' is survival skill.

writing

Write a metaphorical sentence about swimming in work.

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

Use 'đống công việc' for a pile of work.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Use 'đống công việc' for a pile of work.

writing

Translate: 'She broke the world record in swimming.'

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

'Phá kỷ lục thế giới' is the key phrase.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Phá kỷ lục thế giới' is the key phrase.

writing

Write a philosophical sentence about life and swimming.

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

Comparing life to a swim in the open sea.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Comparing life to a swim in the open sea.

writing

Write: 'I swim at the pool.'

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

Use 'ở' for the location.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Use 'ở' for the location.

writing

Write: 'Don't swim here.'

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

'Đừng' is the negative imperative.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Đừng' is the negative imperative.

writing

Write: 'If you don't know how to swim, wear a life jacket.'

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

'Áo phao' is life jacket.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Áo phao' is life jacket.

writing

Write: 'The athlete is preparing for the race.'

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

'Chuẩn bị' is prepare, 'cuộc đua' is race.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Chuẩn bị' is prepare, 'cuộc đua' is race.

writing

Write: 'Swimming helps to forge a strong will.'

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

'Rèn luyện ý chí' is to forge willpower.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Rèn luyện ý chí' is to forge willpower.

writing

Write: 'The stillness of the water reflects the soul.'

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

Using 'phản chiếu' for reflect.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Using 'phản chiếu' for reflect.

writing

Translate: 'Today is hot, let's go swimming.'

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

'Thôi' is used for suggestions.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Thôi' is used for suggestions.

writing

Translate: 'My brother is learning to swim.'

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

'Học bơi' is learning to swim.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Học bơi' is learning to swim.

speaking

Say 'I swim' in Vietnamese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Practice the level tone on 'bơi'.

speaking

Say 'I like swimming' in Vietnamese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Keep 'thích' high and 'bơi' flat.

speaking

Ask 'Do you know how to swim?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Ensure 'không' is at the end.

speaking

Say 'I go swimming every day.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Focus on the rhythm of 'mỗi ngày'.

speaking

Say 'The water is very warm.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Ấm' means warm.

speaking

Say 'Swimming is good for health.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Pronounce 'sức khỏe' clearly.

speaking

Say 'I am learning breaststroke.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Ếch' has a rising tone.

speaking

Say 'He is a professional swimmer.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Chuyên nghiệp' means professional.

speaking

Say 'Don't swim too far from the shore.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Xa bờ' means far from shore.

speaking

Use 'bơi' metaphorically about work.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Hồ sơ' means files/documents.

speaking

Say 'She won a gold medal.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Huy chương vàng' is gold medal.

speaking

Discuss river culture and swimming.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Gắn liền' means closely linked.

speaking

Say 'The fish is swimming.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Simple continuous action.

speaking

Ask 'What time does the pool close?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Đóng cửa' is close.

speaking

Say 'I forgot my swimsuit.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Quên mang' is forgot to bring.

speaking

Say 'Swimming requires a lot of energy.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Tốn năng lượng' means consumes energy.

speaking

Say 'He is swimming against the tide.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Using the idiom for non-conformity.

speaking

Say 'Life is like a vast sea.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Poetic comparison.

speaking

Say 'Let's go swim!'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Đi' at the end is an imperative.

speaking

Say 'I swim with my friends.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Với' means with.

listening

Listen to: 'Tôi đi bơi.' What is the person doing?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Đi bơi' is the action.

listening

Listen to: 'Bạn biết bơi không?' Is this a question?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

The 'không' at the end indicates a question.

listening

Listen to: 'Hồ bơi ở đằng kia.' Where is the pool?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Đằng kia' means over there.

listening

Listen to: 'Nước sâu lắm.' Is the water shallow?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Sâu' means deep, 'lắm' means very.

listening

Listen to: 'Tôi bơi lội mỗi sáng để giảm cân.' Why does the person swim?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Giảm cân' means to lose weight.

listening

Listen to: 'Vận động viên chuẩn bị xuất phát.' What is the athlete doing?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Xuất phát' means to start/depart.

listening

Listen to: 'Dự án này khiến tôi như đang bơi.' How does the person feel?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

Metaphorical use of 'bơi'.

listening

Listen to: 'Bơi trong bể khổ nhân gian.' What is the context?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Bể khổ' is a specific religious/philosophical term.

listening

Listen to: 'Con cá bơi.' What is swimming?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Con cá' is fish.

listening

Listen to: 'Trời nóng, đi bơi đi.' What is the reason for swimming?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Trời nóng' means it is hot.

listening

Listen to: 'Bơi ếch dễ hơn bơi bướm.' Which is easier?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Bơi ếch' is easier than 'bơi bướm'.

listening

Listen to: 'Đường bơi bị chặn.' Is the lane open?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Bị chặn' means blocked.

listening

Listen to: 'Cô ấy bơi trong vinh quang.' What is she swimming in?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Vinh quang' is glory.

listening

Listen to: 'Sóng đời xô đẩy, ta vẫn phải bơi.' What is the person's attitude?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

They must keep swimming despite life's waves.

listening

Listen to: 'Hồ bơi đẹp quá.' What is beautiful?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

'Hồ bơi' is the pool.

/ 180 correct

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