như en 30 segundos
- A core Vietnamese preposition meaning 'like' or 'as'.
- Used to make comparisons between things, people, or actions.
- Essential for descriptive language and everyday communication.
- Foundational word for A1 learners, used frequently across all levels.
The Vietnamese word 'như' is a versatile preposition that primarily translates to 'like' or 'as' in English. It is used to draw comparisons, indicate resemblance, or describe the manner in which something is done or appears. This word is fundamental for expressing similarities and is commonly encountered in everyday conversations, making it an essential vocabulary item for learners at the A1 CEFR level and beyond.
- Basic Meaning
- 'Như' establishes a comparison, suggesting that one thing is similar to another in some aspect.
- Usage Scenarios
- It can be used to compare appearances, qualities, actions, or states. For example, you might describe someone's smile as being like the sun, or explain that you do something in the same way someone else does.
Cô ấy hát hay như một ca sĩ chuyên nghiệp.
Understanding 'như' is crucial for grasping comparisons and descriptive language in Vietnamese. It allows you to add nuance and detail to your communication by clearly articulating how things relate to each other. From simple observations to more complex descriptions, 'như' plays a vital role in conveying meaning effectively.
- Expressing Similarity
- The core function of 'như' is to highlight similarity. It bridges two elements, showing how they are alike. This can be a direct comparison of physical attributes, actions, or even abstract concepts.
- Common Structures
- 'Như' often appears in structures like 'A như B' (A is like B) or 'làm gì đó như ai đó' (to do something like someone else). It's a very common building block in Vietnamese sentences.
Đứa trẻ chạy nhanh như gió.
Mastering 'như' will significantly improve your ability to understand and express comparisons in Vietnamese, making your language use more vivid and precise. It's a word that you will encounter very frequently.
Using 'như' correctly involves understanding the two elements being compared and the nature of their similarity. It's a flexible preposition that can be placed in various parts of a sentence, though it most commonly follows the subject or the verb it modifies, introducing the comparative element.
- Comparing Nouns
- You can compare two nouns directly. For example, 'Mẹ tôi như một thiên thần.' (My mother is like an angel.) Here, 'mẹ tôi' (my mother) is being compared to 'thiên thần' (angel).
- Comparing Actions
- 'Như' can also be used to describe how an action is performed. 'Anh ấy làm bài tập như tôi đã hướng dẫn.' (He did the homework as I instructed.) This shows the manner of doing the homework.
Đôi mắt em như hai vì sao.
It's also common to see 'như' used with adjectives to intensify or specify a comparison. For instance, 'Trời hôm nay đẹp như mọi khi.' (The weather today is as beautiful as always.) This implies a consistent level of beauty.
- Introducing Examples
- 'Như' can also precede a list of examples, functioning similarly to 'such as' or 'for example'. 'Tôi thích các loại trái cây, như xoài, táo, và chuối.' (I like fruits, such as mangoes, apples, and bananas.)
- Figurative Language
- In literature and poetry, 'như' is frequently used to create vivid imagery and metaphors. 'Nụ cười của em như ánh nắng ban mai.' (Your smile is like the morning sun.)
Anh ấy chạy nhanh như một vận động viên.
Practice constructing sentences with 'như' by comparing different objects, actions, and qualities. This will solidify your understanding and make its usage feel more natural.
The word 'như' is ubiquitous in Vietnamese daily life. You'll hear it constantly in casual conversations, formal speeches, songs, and even in children's stories. Its fundamental role in making comparisons means it's embedded in how Vietnamese speakers describe the world around them.
- Everyday Conversations
- Imagine friends chatting about a movie: 'Bộ phim đó hay như tôi mong đợi.' (That movie was as good as I expected.) Or someone describing food: 'Món ăn này ngon như mẹ nấu.' (This dish is as delicious as Mom's cooking.)
- Media and Entertainment
- In songs, 'như' is used to create poetic imagery. For example, a lyric might say: 'Trái tim anh nhớ em như nhớ quê hương.' (My heart misses you like it misses home.) Television programs and news reports also frequently use 'như' for comparisons and explanations.
Cuộc sống đôi khi khó khăn như leo núi.
You'll also encounter 'như' in educational settings, when teachers explain concepts or give examples. For instance, a teacher might say: 'Các em hãy làm bài tập như ví dụ trên bảng.' (Students, please do the exercises as in the example on the board.)
- Formal Settings
- Even in more formal contexts, like speeches or official documents, 'như' is used. 'Tình hình kinh tế hiện tại không ổn định như chúng ta đã dự báo.' (The current economic situation is not as stable as we had predicted.)
- Cultural Expressions
- Proverbs and common sayings often employ 'như'. 'Ăn như rồng cuốn, nói như rồng leo' is a saying that uses 'như' to describe contrasting eating and speaking styles.
Anh ấy nói to như hét vào mặt tôi.
The pervasiveness of 'như' means that exposure to Vietnamese language through any medium will invariably involve encountering this word. Its consistent usage across different registers makes it a highly reliable and frequently used grammatical tool.
While 'như' is a common word, learners can sometimes make mistakes in its application, especially when trying to translate directly from English or when overgeneralizing its usage. Being aware of these potential pitfalls can help you use 'như' more accurately.
- Confusing with 'là'
- A common error is using 'như' when 'là' (to be) is more appropriate, or vice versa. 'Là' is used for direct identification or definition, while 'như' is for comparison. For example, 'Tôi là học sinh' (I am a student) is correct, not 'Tôi như học sinh'.
- Incorrect Placement
- The placement of 'như' can sometimes be tricky. While it often follows the verb or subject, placing it incorrectly can change the meaning or make the sentence grammatically awkward. For instance, 'như tôi đã nói' (as I said) is correct, but putting 'như' at the very beginning without proper structure might be wrong.
Sai: Anh ấy như một bác sĩ. Đúng: Anh ấy là một bác sĩ.
Another mistake is using 'như' to express a definitive statement rather than a comparison. If something *is* something, use 'là'. If it is *similar to* something, use 'như'.
- Overuse or Underuse
- Some learners might overuse 'như' in situations where a simpler structure would suffice, or conversely, fail to use it when a comparison would naturally be made. Finding the right balance is key.
- Translating English Structures Directly
- English uses 'like' and 'as' in many ways. Directly translating every instance of these words into 'như' might not always yield correct Vietnamese. For example, 'as' can also mean 'bởi vì' (because) or 'trong khi' (while), which are different from 'như'.
Sai: Tôi ăn như no. Đúng: Tôi ăn đến khi no.
To avoid these mistakes, focus on understanding the function of 'như' as a comparator. Pay attention to how native speakers use it in various contexts and practice constructing your own sentences, perhaps with feedback from a tutor or language partner.
While 'như' is the most common word for 'like' or 'as', Vietnamese has other words and structures that can convey similar meanings, depending on the nuance and context. Understanding these alternatives can enrich your vocabulary and provide more precise ways to express comparisons.
- 'Giống như' (Like; similar to)
- 'Giống như' is very similar to 'như' and is often interchangeable. It explicitly emphasizes the similarity or resemblance between two things. It can sometimes feel slightly more emphatic about the likeness. Example: 'Chiếc xe này trông giống như chiếc xe của tôi.' (This car looks like my car.)
- 'Tựa như' (As if; like)
- 'Tựa như' often implies a hypothetical or imagined similarity, or a resemblance that might not be entirely real or obvious. It can be used to create a more poetic or figurative effect. Example: 'Cô ấy nói chuyện tựa như đang mơ.' (She speaks as if she is dreaming.)
'Như' vs 'Giống như': Both are common for 'like'. 'Tựa như' adds a touch of imagination.
In certain contexts, especially when comparing actions or states, Vietnamese might use different phrasing instead of a direct prepositional comparison.
- 'Y như' (Exactly like; just like)
- 'Y như' is used when the similarity is exact or very close. It emphasizes precision in the comparison. Example: 'Anh ấy làm mọi thứ y như bạn đã chỉ dẫn.' (He did everything exactly as you instructed.)
- 'Cứ như là' (As if; as though)
- This phrase is similar to 'tựa như' and often used to introduce a clause that describes a hypothetical or perceived situation. Example: 'Chuyện đó xảy ra cứ như là một giấc mơ.' (That event happened as if it were a dream.)
'Như' is the go-to, but 'giống như' and 'y như' offer variations on similarity.
It's also important to remember that sometimes English uses 'like' or 'as' in ways that don't translate directly to 'như'. For example, 'as' can mean 'because' ('vì') or 'while' ('trong khi'). Always consider the specific meaning in the English sentence before opting for 'như' or its alternatives.
How Formal Is It?
Dato curioso
In ancient Vietnamese texts, 'như' could sometimes be used in ways that are now considered archaic or poetic, adding layers of meaning that are not immediately apparent in modern usage. Its versatility has allowed it to adapt and remain a core part of the language.
Guía de pronunciación
- Pronouncing the initial sound as /n/ instead of the palatal nasal /ɲ/.
- Using an English vowel sound instead of the Vietnamese central vowel.
- Omitting the glottal stop, making the word sound flat or incomplete.
- Incorrectly assigning a tone to the word.
Nivel de dificultad
Recognizing 'như' in reading is generally straightforward as it's a common word. However, understanding complex comparative clauses or idiomatic uses might require higher proficiency. For A1 learners, it's very easy.
Basic use of 'như' is easy for beginners. Constructing nuanced comparisons or using it in complex sentence structures requires practice and a good understanding of context.
Pronunciation and basic usage are manageable for beginners. Fluency and accuracy in more complex comparisons improve with practice.
Identifying 'như' in spoken Vietnamese is generally easy due to its frequent occurrence. Understanding the comparison it introduces is key.
Qué aprender después
Requisitos previos
Aprende después
Avanzado
Gramática que debes saber
Comparison using 'như' (like/as)
Cô ấy hát hay như chim.
Introducing examples with 'như'
Tôi thích trái cây, như táo, chuối, cam.
Using 'như thế nào' to ask 'how'
Bạn muốn làm như thế nào?
Using 'như vậy' or 'như thế này' to indicate manner
Đừng làm như vậy.
Using 'như thể' or 'như là' with clauses for hypothetical situations
Anh ấy nói như thể anh ấy biết tất cả.
Ejemplos por nivel
Tôi thích màu xanh như bầu trời.
I like the color blue like the sky.
'như' is used to compare the color blue to the sky.
Em bé cười như thiên thần.
The baby smiles like an angel.
'như' compares the baby's smile to an angel's.
Quyển sách này dày như cái gối.
This book is as thick as a pillow.
'như' compares the thickness of the book to a pillow.
Anh ấy chạy nhanh như gió.
He runs as fast as the wind.
'như' compares the speed of running to the wind.
Món ăn này ngon như mọi khi.
This dish is as delicious as always.
'như' indicates the dish's taste is consistently good.
Cô ấy hát hay như chim.
She sings as beautifully as a bird.
'như' compares the singing quality to a bird's song.
Căn phòng này rộng như cái sân.
This room is as spacious as the yard.
'như' compares the size of the room to a yard.
Hoa này thơm như hoa hồng.
This flower smells as fragrant as a rose.
'như' compares the fragrance of the flower to a rose.
Anh ấy làm việc chăm chỉ như một con ong.
He works as hard as a bee.
'như' compares the level of hard work to that of a bee.
Cô ấy nói chuyện như một người lớn.
She talks like an adult.
'như' compares the way she talks to an adult's way of speaking.
Cuộc sống đôi khi khó khăn như leo núi.
Life is sometimes as difficult as climbing a mountain.
'như' compares the difficulty of life to climbing a mountain.
Đứa trẻ này thông minh như bạn nó.
This child is as smart as his friend.
'như' compares the intelligence of the child to his friend.
Anh ấy có giọng nói trầm như sấm.
He has a deep voice like thunder.
'như' compares the depth of his voice to thunder.
Cô ấy vẽ tranh đẹp như tranh của họa sĩ.
She paints as beautifully as a painter's painting.
'như' compares the quality of her paintings to those of a professional painter.
Cánh đồng lúa chín vàng như một tấm thảm.
The ripe rice field is golden like a carpet.
'như' compares the appearance of the rice field to a carpet.
Anh ấy cười thật tươi như ánh nắng.
He smiles as brightly as sunshine.
'như' compares the brightness of his smile to sunshine.
Việc học ngoại ngữ đòi hỏi sự kiên trì như xây một tòa nhà.
Learning a foreign language requires perseverance like building a building.
'như' draws a parallel between the effort required for language learning and construction.
Cô ấy có khả năng lãnh đạo như một vị tướng.
She has leadership skills like a general.
'như' compares her leadership abilities to those of a general.
Anh ấy nói chuyện như thể chưa từng gặp ai.
He talks as if he has never met anyone.
'như thể' introduces a hypothetical or perceived situation.
Trái tim anh đau như bị dao cắt.
My heart aches as if it were cut by a knife.
'như' creates a strong, visceral comparison for emotional pain.
Thành phố về đêm lung linh như một bầu trời đầy sao.
The city at night sparkles like a sky full of stars.
'như' compares the twinkling lights of the city to stars.
Anh ấy làm mọi thứ y như bạn đã chỉ dẫn.
He did everything exactly as you instructed.
'y như' emphasizes exactness in following instructions.
Cô ấy có một giọng nói ấm áp tựa như tiếng mẹ ru.
She has a warm voice like a mother's lullaby.
'tựa như' creates a tender and poetic comparison.
Những lời anh nói vang vọng như tiếng chuông.
His words echo like the sound of bells.
'như' compares the resonance of his words to bells.
Sự phát triển của công nghệ diễn ra nhanh chóng như một cơn vũ bão.
The development of technology is happening as rapidly as a storm.
'như' compares the speed of technological progress to a storm's intensity.
Anh ấy có khả năng thích ứng như một loài động vật hoang dã.
He has an adaptability like a wild animal.
'như' compares adaptability to the survival skills of wild animals.
Cô ấy trình bày vấn đề một cách rõ ràng như lời giải cho một câu đố.
She presents the problem as clearly as the solution to a puzzle.
'như' compares the clarity of her presentation to a puzzle solution.
Những hy vọng của chúng tôi tan biến như sương khói.
Our hopes vanished like smoke and mist.
'như' uses a common metaphor for the disappearance of hopes.
Anh ta phản ứng như thể mình vô tội trước mọi cáo buộc.
He reacted as though he were innocent of all accusations.
'như thể' introduces a hypothetical or feigned behavior.
Thị trường chứng khoán biến động như một con tàu lượn siêu tốc.
The stock market is as volatile as a roller coaster.
'như' compares the unpredictable nature of the stock market to a roller coaster.
Lời hứa của anh ta mong manh như pha lê.
His promises are as fragile as crystal.
'như' compares the fragility of promises to crystal.
Sự im lặng của cô ấy nặng nề như một lời thú tội.
Her silence is as heavy as a confession.
'như' compares the weight of silence to a confession.
Anh ấy có một cái nhìn sâu sắc về vấn đề, như thể đã trải qua tất cả.
He has a deep insight into the issue, as if he had experienced it all.
'như thể' implies a profound, experiential understanding.
Nền kinh tế đang tăng trưởng như một con thuyền no gió ra khơi.
The economy is growing like a ship with full sails heading out to sea.
'như' uses a metaphor for robust and forward-moving economic progress.
Những lời chỉ trích của cô ấy sắc bén như lưỡi dao.
Her criticisms are as sharp as a knife's edge.
'như' employs a strong metaphor for the severity of criticism.
Anh ta cố gắng che giấu cảm xúc, như một diễn viên tài ba.
He tries to hide his emotions, like a talented actor.
'như' compares his emotional control to acting prowess.
Sự thật đôi khi phũ phàng như một cơn ác mộng.
The truth is sometimes as cruel as a nightmare.
'như' compares the harshness of truth to a nightmare.
Anh ấy giải thích vấn đề một cách tinh tế, như một nhà triết học.
He explains the issue subtly, like a philosopher.
'như' compares his analytical skill to that of a philosopher.
Tình yêu của họ nồng nàn như ngọn lửa không bao giờ tắt.
Their love is as passionate as a flame that never extinguishes.
'như' uses a metaphor for enduring and intense love.
Anh ấy hành động như thể mọi khó khăn đều có thể vượt qua.
He acts as though all difficulties can be overcome.
'như thể' describes an attitude of confidence and resilience.
Sự phức tạp của vấn đề này tựa hồ như một mê cung không lối thoát.
The complexity of this problem seems like a labyrinth with no exit.
'tựa hồ như' adds a layer of perceived or apparent similarity, often in complex situations.
Anh ta biện minh cho hành động của mình như thể đó là mệnh lệnh từ vũ trụ.
He justifies his actions as if they were a command from the universe.
'như thể' suggests an exaggerated or grandiose justification.
Sự suy đồi đạo đức trong xã hội lan tràn như một căn bệnh dịch.
Moral decay in society is spreading like an epidemic disease.
'như' uses a powerful metaphor for pervasive societal issues.
Lời nói của ông ta vang vọng như tiếng sấm của quá khứ.
His words echo like the thunder of the past.
'như' connects present words to historical significance through a powerful auditory metaphor.
Sự cô đơn bao trùm lấy anh như một tấm áo choàng nặng trĩu.
Loneliness enveloped him like a heavy cloak.
'như' uses a tactile metaphor to describe the oppressive nature of loneliness.
Anh ấy diễn đạt ý tưởng một cách uyển chuyển như một nghệ sĩ múa.
He expresses ideas with fluidity, like a dancer.
'như' compares the elegance of expression to the grace of dance.
Sự thật được che đậy như một bức màn bí ẩn.
The truth is hidden like a mysterious veil.
'như' uses a visual metaphor for concealed information.
Anh ấy nhìn nhận thế giới như thể nó là một sân khấu lớn.
He views the world as if it were a grand stage.
'như thể' implies a perspective where life's events are performances.
Sinónimos
Antónimos
Colocaciones comunes
Frases Comunes
— As if; like (often introducing examples or hypotheticals).
Anh ấy kể chuyện như là anh ấy đã ở đó.
Se confunde a menudo con
'Là' means 'to be' and is used for direct identification or definition (e.g., 'Tôi là học sinh' - I am a student). 'Như' is for comparison (e.g., 'Anh ấy cao như cây' - He is tall like a tree). Using 'như' for identification or 'là' for comparison is a common mistake.
'Với' means 'with' or 'and' (connecting nouns). It is not used for comparison. For example, 'Tôi ăn cơm với cá' (I eat rice with fish) is correct, not 'Tôi ăn cơm như cá'.
'Và' means 'and' and is used to connect similar items or clauses. It does not imply comparison. 'Tôi thích táo và cam' (I like apples and oranges) is correct, whereas 'Tôi thích táo như cam' would imply apples are like oranges.
Modismos y expresiones
— A proverb describing someone who eats voraciously (like a dragon coiling) but speaks eloquently and gracefully (like a dragon climbing). 'Như' is used in both parts of the comparison.
Anh ấy có thể ăn hết cả mâm cỗ, đúng là 'ăn như rồng cuốn'.
Proverbial— Literally means 'poor like Han Gaozu'. Used to describe extreme poverty, comparing oneself to the famously poor beginnings of Emperor Gaozu of Han.
Sau khi kinh doanh thất bại, anh ta trở nên nghèo như Hán Cao Tổ.
Idiomatic/Historical— Beautiful as an immortal/fairy. Used to describe someone exceptionally beautiful.
Cô dâu hôm nay đẹp như tiên.
Common idiom— To run as if chased by demons; to run extremely fast.
Khi thấy chủ nợ, anh ta chạy như ma đuổi.
Informal idiom— To speak as loudly and forcefully as thunder.
Ông ấy thường nói như sấm khi tức giận.
Descriptive idiom— Strong as a tiger. Used to describe someone with great physical strength.
Anh ấy có sức vóc mạnh như hổ.
Common idiom— White as snow. Used to describe extreme whiteness, often of skin or fabric.
Làn da của cô ấy trắng như tuyết.
Common idiom— Cold as money. Used to describe someone who is very cold-hearted or unfriendly.
Anh ta đối xử với mọi người lạnh như tiền.
Informal idiom— Slow as a turtle. Used to describe someone who is very slow.
Anh ấy làm việc chậm như rùa.
Common idiom— Fierce as a tiger. Used to describe someone who is very aggressive or fierce.
Bà mẹ bảo vệ con dữ như cọp.
Common idiomFácil de confundir
Both 'như' and 'là' are fundamental Vietnamese verbs/prepositions that can be translated into English using 'to be' or 'like/as' in certain contexts, leading to confusion.
'Là' is a copula verb used for direct identification, definition, or stating what something is. Example: 'Cô ấy <strong>là</strong> bác sĩ.' (She <strong>is</strong> a doctor). 'Như' is a preposition used for comparison, simile, or analogy, indicating resemblance. Example: 'Cô ấy hát hay <strong>như</strong> chim.' (She sings as beautifully <strong>as</strong> a bird).
Incorrect: Tôi <strong>như</strong> một học sinh. (I am like a student - implies resemblance). Correct: Tôi <strong>là</strong> một học sinh. (I <strong>am</strong> a student - identification).
'Giống như' is a very close synonym of 'như' and is often interchangeable, making it hard to distinguish when one is preferred over the other.
'Như' is the more general and concise term for 'like' or 'as'. 'Giống như' explicitly emphasizes the similarity or resemblance between two things, often feeling slightly more emphatic about the likeness. In many A1 and A2 contexts, they are functionally the same.
Both are correct: 'Chiếc xe này <strong>như</strong> xe của tôi.' and 'Chiếc xe này <strong>giống như</strong> xe của tôi.' (This car is like my car).
Like 'như', 'tựa như' also translates to 'like' or 'as', but it carries a more nuanced meaning that learners might overlook.
'Như' is a direct comparison. 'Tựa như' often implies a comparison that is hypothetical, imaginative, or perhaps slightly less concrete. It's frequently used in literary or poetic contexts to create a softer or more figurative resemblance. 'Như' is more straightforward.
'Cô ấy có nụ cười <strong>như</strong> ánh nắng.' (She has a smile like sunshine - direct comparison). 'Cô ấy có nụ cười <strong>tựa như</strong> ánh nắng ban mai.' (She has a smile as if it were morning sunshine - more poetic, implying a gentle, perhaps fleeting beauty).
This word also means 'like' or 'as', but it's used for very precise comparisons.
'Y như' denotes an exact or almost exact similarity. It's used when the resemblance is striking and precise. 'Như' is more general. 'Y như' often carries an emphatic tone about the exactness of the comparison.
'Anh ấy làm mọi thứ <strong>như</strong> tôi đã chỉ.' (He did everything like I instructed - general). 'Anh ấy làm mọi thứ <strong>y như</strong> tôi đã chỉ, từng chi tiết một.' (He did everything exactly like I instructed, every single detail - emphasizing precision).
This is a phrase that includes 'như' but has a completely different function.
'Như thế nào' is an interrogative phrase meaning 'how?' or 'what is the manner?'. It is used to ask for information about the way something is done or happens. 'Như' on its own is a preposition for comparison.
Question: 'Bạn muốn làm <strong>như thế nào</strong>?' (How do you want to do it?). Comparison: 'Anh ấy chạy <strong>như</strong> gió.' (He runs like the wind).
Patrones de oraciones
Subject + [Verb/Adjective] + như + Noun/Adjective
Em bé cười <strong>như</strong> thiên thần.
Noun A + như + Noun B
Màu xanh <strong>như</strong> bầu trời.
Subject + [Verb] + như + Adverbial Phrase
Anh ấy chạy <strong>như</strong> gió.
Subject + [Verb] + như + Noun (describing manner)
Cô ấy nói <strong>như</strong> một người lớn.
Statement, ... , như + Clause
Cuộc sống đôi khi khó khăn <strong>như</strong> leo núi.
Item + như + Examples
Tôi thích trái cây, <strong>như</strong> táo, chuối, cam.
Subject + [Verb] + như thể/như là + Clause
Anh ấy hành động <strong>như thể</strong> mình là ông chủ.
Complex comparison involving multiple clauses
Sự kiên trì của anh ấy, <strong>như</strong> chúng ta đã chứng kiến, là yếu tố quyết định thành công.
Familia de palabras
Relacionado
Cómo usarlo
Very High
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Using 'như' for identification instead of comparison.
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Tôi <strong>là</strong> bác sĩ. (I am a doctor.)
Learners often confuse 'như' (like/as) with 'là' (to be). 'Là' identifies, while 'như' compares. Saying 'Tôi <strong>như</strong> bác sĩ' would imply you resemble a doctor, not that you are one.
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Incorrectly translating English 'as' into 'như'.
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Anh ấy thông minh <strong>như</strong> bạn tôi. (He is smart <strong>like</strong> my friend.)
English 'as' can mean 'because' or 'while'. 'Như' specifically means 'like' or 'as' for comparison. If the English sentence means 'because', use 'vì' or 'bởi vì' in Vietnamese, not 'như'.
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Omitting the glottal stop in pronunciation.
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như (with a sharp cutoff at the end)
The Vietnamese 'hỏi' tone involves a glottal stop at the end of the syllable. Omitting this makes the pronunciation sound flat and incomplete, potentially leading to misunderstanding.
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Using 'như' to connect unrelated items.
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Tôi thích táo <strong>và</strong> cam. (I like apples <strong>and</strong> oranges.)
'Như' is for comparison. If you are simply listing items, use 'và' (and). Saying 'Tôi thích táo <strong>như</strong> cam' implies apples are similar to oranges, which might not be the intended meaning.
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Overusing 'như' in place of simpler structures.
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Cô ấy hát rất hay. (She sings very well.)
While 'như' is useful for comparisons, sometimes a direct statement is more appropriate. Saying 'Cô ấy hát <strong>như</strong> chim' is fine, but if the comparison isn't essential, a simpler sentence might be better.
Consejos
Master the 'nh' sound
The initial 'nh' in 'như' is a palatal nasal sound, similar to the 'ny' in 'canyon'. Practice this sound distinctly from a simple 'n'. The following vowel is short and central, and the word ends with a glottal stop, giving it a sharp cutoff. Listen to audio examples and repeat.
Distinguish 'như' from 'là'
Remember that 'như' is for comparison ('like', 'as'), while 'là' is for identification ('is', 'am', 'are'). Saying 'Tôi như học sinh' is incorrect if you mean 'I am a student'; it should be 'Tôi là học sinh'.
Learn common comparative phrases
Familiarize yourself with common phrases using 'như', such as 'như mọi khi' (as always), 'như vậy' (like that), 'như thế nào' (how), and 'như trong phim' (like in a movie). These will help you use 'như' more naturally.
Listen for 'như' in context
Pay close attention to how native speakers use 'như' in songs, movies, and conversations. Understanding the context will help you grasp the nuances of the comparisons being made and how 'như' fits into the sentence structure.
Create your own comparisons
Actively try to make comparisons in Vietnamese. Describe objects around you, people you know, or situations you encounter using 'như'. For example, 'Bầu trời hôm nay xanh như ngọc bích.' (The sky today is as blue as jade.)
Explore similar words
Learn words like 'giống như', 'tựa như', and 'y như'. Understand their subtle differences in emphasis and usage to express more precise comparisons. 'Giống như' is very common, 'tựa như' is more poetic, and 'y như' implies exactness.
Recognize idiomatic 'như'
Be aware that 'như' is a key component in many Vietnamese idioms and proverbs. Recognizing these will improve your comprehension of colloquial speech and cultural expressions. Examples include 'chậm như rùa' (slow as a turtle).
Understand sentence structure
Observe how 'như' fits into different sentence structures. It often follows the verb or adjective being modified, or it can introduce a clause or a list of examples. Understanding these patterns will help you construct your own sentences correctly.
Use mnemonics and associations
Create memorable links. For 'như', associate the 'ny' sound with two identical things side-by-side, representing comparison. Or visualize someone pointing and saying 'Ny! Uh!' to make a comparison.
Incorporate into daily use
Make a conscious effort to use 'như' in your Vietnamese practice every day. Whether speaking, writing, or even thinking, try to find opportunities to make comparisons. The more you use it, the more natural it will become.
Memorízalo
Mnemotecnia
Think of 'ny' in canyon, then 'uh' sound, then a quick stop. 'Ny-uh!' then stop. Imagine someone pointing 'Ny! Uh!' and then making a comparison. 'Ny! Uh! Look, it's *like* that!'
Asociación visual
Picture a person standing between two identical objects, pointing to one and saying 'như' with a knowing smile, indicating they are the same or very similar.
Word Web
Desafío
Try to describe five objects in your room using 'như' to compare them to something else. For example, 'The lamp is tall *like* a tree.' or 'The book is thick *like* a brick.'
Origen de la palabra
The word 'như' is believed to have originated from Proto-Sino-Tibetan languages, evolving through various stages of Vietnamese linguistic development. Its core meaning of comparison has remained remarkably consistent throughout its history.
Significado original: Likely related to concepts of similarity, resemblance, or manner.
Austroasiatic (Mon-Khmer)Contexto cultural
When using 'như' for comparisons, especially involving people, it's important to be mindful of politeness and context. While comparisons can be flattering (e.g., 'đẹp như tiên'), they can also be critical if not used carefully. Ensure comparisons are respectful and appropriate for the situation.
While 'like' and 'as' are direct translations, the nuances of Vietnamese comparisons using 'như' can sometimes be more poetic or evocative than their English counterparts. For example, comparing a smile to sunshine is a common and endearing expression.
Practica en la vida real
Contextos reales
Describing appearances
- Đẹp <strong>như</strong> tiên
- Trắng <strong>như</strong> tuyết
- Xanh <strong>như</strong> bầu trời
Describing actions/speed
- Chạy <strong>như</strong> gió
- Làm <strong>như</strong> tôi đã nói
- Nói <strong>như</strong> sấm
Expressing feelings/states
- Buồn <strong>như</strong> ai đó
- Vui <strong>như</strong> trẻ thơ
- Khó khăn <strong>như</strong> leo núi
Giving examples
- ..., <strong>như</strong> táo, chuối
- <strong>Như là</strong> mọi khi
- <strong>Như</strong> bạn biết
Figurative language/Idioms
- <strong>Như</strong> trong phim
- <strong>Như</strong> một giấc mơ
- <strong>Như</strong> ma đuổi
Inicios de conversación
"Bạn thấy món ăn này thế nào? Ngon như bạn mong đợi không?"
"Thời tiết hôm nay như thế nào?"
"Anh ấy trông như thế nào khi còn trẻ?"
"Bạn có thể mô tả ngôi nhà đó như thế nào không?"
"Điều gì khiến bạn cảm thấy hạnh phúc như một đứa trẻ?"
Temas para diario
Hãy viết về một kỷ niệm đẹp, so sánh cảm xúc của bạn lúc đó với một điều gì đó khác.
Mô tả một người bạn của bạn bằng cách sử dụng 'như' để so sánh các đặc điểm của họ.
Hãy tưởng tượng bạn là một nhân vật trong phim. Bạn sẽ hành động <strong>như thế nào</strong>?
Viết về một thử thách bạn đã vượt qua, so sánh nó với một điều gì đó khó khăn khác.
So sánh cuộc sống hiện tại của bạn với cuộc sống bạn đã từng mơ ước.
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasThe most common meaning of 'như' is 'like' or 'as'. It is used to draw comparisons between two things, people, or actions, indicating that they are similar in some way. For example, 'Cô ấy hát hay như chim' means 'She sings as beautifully as a bird'.
Use 'như' when you are making a comparison or describing a resemblance. Use 'là' when you are identifying something or stating what it is. For instance, 'Tôi là học sinh' (I am a student) is identification, while 'Anh ấy cao như cây' (He is tall like a tree) is a comparison.
Yes, 'như' can be used to introduce examples, similar to 'such as' in English. For example, 'Tôi thích trái cây, như táo, chuối, và cam' means 'I like fruits, such as apples, bananas, and oranges'.
Yes, Vietnamese has similar words like 'giống như' (very similar, often interchangeable), 'tựa như' (more poetic or hypothetical), and 'y như' (exactly like). The choice often depends on the nuance you want to convey.
The pronunciation involves a palatal nasal sound (like 'ny' in 'canyon'), followed by a short, central vowel sound, and ending with a glottal stop. It also has a specific falling-rising tone (hỏi tone). It's best to listen to native speakers or use pronunciation guides.
Yes, 'như' is used across all registers, from casual conversations to formal speeches and literature. While the basic meaning remains the same, the complexity of the sentences and the comparisons might vary with formality.
Yes, 'như' is part of common question phrases like 'như thế nào?' which means 'how?'. This phrase asks about the manner or way something is done.
'Như vậy' means 'like that' or 'in that way', referring to something at a distance or previously mentioned. 'Như thế này' means 'like this' or 'in this way', referring to something close or currently being demonstrated.
Absolutely. 'Như' is frequently used in Vietnamese proverbs and idioms, such as 'Ăn như rồng cuốn, nói như rồng leo' (eats like a dragon, speaks like a dragon) or 'Chạy như ma đuổi' (runs like a chased ghost). These idioms use 'như' to create vivid and memorable comparisons.
Start by making simple comparisons in Vietnamese. Try describing objects, people, or actions. Listen to native speakers, read Vietnamese texts, and practice writing sentences with 'như'. Getting feedback from a tutor or language partner is also very beneficial.
Ponte a prueba 9 preguntas
/ 9 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The Vietnamese word 'như' is a fundamental preposition that translates to 'like' or 'as' in English. It is extensively used to draw comparisons, highlight similarities, and describe the manner in which actions are performed. Mastering 'như' is crucial for understanding and producing descriptive Vietnamese sentences, making it an indispensable tool for learners at all CEFR levels.
- A core Vietnamese preposition meaning 'like' or 'as'.
- Used to make comparisons between things, people, or actions.
- Essential for descriptive language and everyday communication.
- Foundational word for A1 learners, used frequently across all levels.
Master the 'nh' sound
The initial 'nh' in 'như' is a palatal nasal sound, similar to the 'ny' in 'canyon'. Practice this sound distinctly from a simple 'n'. The following vowel is short and central, and the word ends with a glottal stop, giving it a sharp cutoff. Listen to audio examples and repeat.
Distinguish 'như' from 'là'
Remember that 'như' is for comparison ('like', 'as'), while 'là' is for identification ('is', 'am', 'are'). Saying 'Tôi như học sinh' is incorrect if you mean 'I am a student'; it should be 'Tôi là học sinh'.
Learn common comparative phrases
Familiarize yourself with common phrases using 'như', such as 'như mọi khi' (as always), 'như vậy' (like that), 'như thế nào' (how), and 'như trong phim' (like in a movie). These will help you use 'như' more naturally.
Listen for 'như' in context
Pay close attention to how native speakers use 'như' in songs, movies, and conversations. Understanding the context will help you grasp the nuances of the comparisons being made and how 'như' fits into the sentence structure.
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