A1 verb 11 min de lecture

Hỏi

To ask

At the A1 CEFR level, 'hỏi' is a core verb. Learners are expected to understand and use it to ask simple, direct questions about personal information, familiar topics, and immediate needs. This includes asking for names, where someone lives, or how to get to a simple place. The focus is on basic survival communication. Sentences will be short and direct, often using question words like 'ai' (who), 'cái gì' (what), 'ở đâu' (where), and 'bao nhiêu' (how much). The goal is to initiate and respond to simple inquiries to get basic information.
For A2 learners, 'hỏi' expands to cover more everyday situations. They can ask for and provide information on familiar topics like work, school, hobbies, and personal experiences. They can also ask for clarification or confirmation. Sentences become slightly more complex, potentially including indirect questions or more detailed inquiries. The ability to ask 'hỏi' helps them navigate more routine aspects of daily life and social interactions.
At the B1 level, 'hỏi' is used more fluidly in a wider range of contexts. Learners can ask questions to gather information for practical purposes, express opinions, and engage in discussions on familiar topics. They can handle most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. This includes asking for advice, making suggestions, and understanding more nuanced questions. The verb is integrated into more complex sentence structures.
B2 learners use 'hỏi' with greater sophistication. They can ask detailed questions on a wide range of subjects, both abstract and concrete, and can participate actively in discussions, expressing and defending their opinions. They can ask clarifying questions to delve deeper into a topic or to challenge assumptions. The verb is used in both spoken and written contexts with a good degree of accuracy and naturalness.
At the C1 level, 'hỏi' is used with a high degree of fluency and accuracy. Learners can ask complex questions, engage in sophisticated discourse, and understand subtle implications. They can use the verb to probe, to seek detailed explanations, and to navigate complex social and professional situations. The range of questions extends to hypothetical scenarios and abstract concepts.
C2 learners use 'hỏi' with native-like proficiency. They can ask any type of question with precision, nuance, and idiomatic expression. They can infer meaning, understand subtle rhetorical questions, and use the verb in highly specialized or creative contexts. Their ability to ask questions is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker.

Hỏi en 30 secondes

  • "Hỏi" is the Vietnamese verb for 'to ask'.
  • It's used to seek information or clarification.
  • Essential for basic communication in Vietnamese.
  • Common in everyday conversations, markets, and educational settings.

Understanding "Hỏi" - The Vietnamese Verb for Asking

The Vietnamese verb "hỏi" is a fundamental word for anyone learning the language. Its primary meaning is 'to ask'. It's used in a vast array of situations, from simple inquiries to more complex questions. Mastering "hỏi" is crucial for basic communication, allowing you to seek information, clarify doubts, and engage in conversations.

Core Meaning
'To ask' - This is the most direct and common translation. It implies an act of seeking information or clarification from someone.
Versatility
"Hỏi" can be used to ask questions about anything: people, places, things, actions, feelings, and more. It's the go-to verb for initiating an inquiry.
Beyond Simple Questions
While 'to ask' is the main translation, "hỏi" can also imply 'to inquire', 'to question', or even 'to consult' depending on the context. For instance, asking for advice uses "hỏi" in a consulting sense.

Tôi muốn hỏi bạn một câu.

I want to ask you a question.

In everyday Vietnamese conversation, "hỏi" is used constantly. You'll hear it when someone is asking for directions, inquiring about someone's well-being, seeking information about a product, or simply wanting to know something. It's a building block for interaction, enabling you to gather necessary information and understand the world around you better. Think of it as the gateway to knowledge and connection in the Vietnamese language. For example, if you see something you're curious about, you'd use "hỏi" to get more details. If you need to confirm a piece of information, "hỏi" is the verb you'll use. It's incredibly versatile and appears in countless everyday scenarios.

Bạn có thể hỏi giáo viên nếu bạn không hiểu.

You can ask the teacher if you don't understand.
Common Scenarios
Asking for directions: "Cho tôi hỏi đường đi đến..." (Let me ask the way to...)
Asking about someone's health: "Bạn có khỏe không?" (though this is a statement, asking about health is implied) or more directly, "Tôi hỏi thăm sức khỏe của bạn." (I inquire about your health.)
Asking for prices: "Cái này giá bao nhiêu?" (How much is this? - implicitly asking)
Asking for opinions: "Bạn nghĩ sao về..." (What do you think about... - implicitly asking)

Understanding and using "hỏi" effectively will significantly boost your confidence in speaking Vietnamese. It's a direct and essential tool for interaction.

Constructing Sentences with "Hỏi"

Using "hỏi" in Vietnamese sentences is straightforward, especially at the beginner level. The verb typically follows the subject and precedes the object or the question itself. Vietnamese sentence structure is generally Subject-Verb-Object (SVO), and "hỏi" fits this pattern perfectly.

Basic Structure
Subject + hỏi + Object (person being asked) + Question/Thing being asked about.
Example: Tôi hỏi cô ấy tên gì. (I ask her what her name is.)
Asking for Information Directly
When you want to ask a direct question, you can place the question phrase after "hỏi".
Example: Anh ấy hỏi khi nào xe buýt sẽ đến. (He asks when the bus will arrive.)
Using "Hỏi" with Indirect Questions
"Hỏi" is also used to introduce indirect questions, meaning you're reporting what someone asked or what you asked.
Example: Cô ấy hỏi tôi có rảnh không. (She asks if I am free.)

Chúng tôi hỏi đường đến ga tàu.

We ask for the way to the train station.

In many cases, the object (the person being asked) can be omitted if it's understood from the context. For example, if you are in a shop and want to ask the price of an item, you might just say "Cái này bao nhiêu?" (How much is this?), which implicitly means "Tôi hỏi cái này bao nhiêu?" (I ask how much this is?). However, for clarity, especially when learning, it's good to include the subject and, if necessary, the object.

With Different Subjects
Tôi hỏi bạn.
Anh ấy hỏi cô ấy.
Họ hỏi chúng tôi.
Bạn có muốn hỏi gì không?

Em bé hỏi mẹ về ngôi sao trên trời.

The baby asks mom about the stars in the sky.

Practice constructing simple sentences using "hỏi". Start with asking about basic information like names, ages, or locations. As you become more comfortable, you can incorporate more complex questions and indirect speech.

"Hỏi" in Real-Life Vietnamese Conversations

"Hỏi" is an incredibly common verb that you will hear constantly in everyday Vietnamese. Its usage spans across all social interactions, from casual chats with friends to formal inquiries in business settings. Understanding these contexts will help you grasp the natural flow of the language.

Daily Interactions
In markets and shops: Vendors and customers frequently use "hỏi" to inquire about prices, product details, or availability. For example, a customer might say, "Cho tôi hỏi cái áo này bao nhiêu tiền?" (Let me ask how much this shirt costs?).
Asking for directions: When lost or unfamiliar with an area, people will "hỏi" for guidance. "Xin lỗi, bạn có thể hỏi đường đến bưu điện không?" (Excuse me, can you ask the way to the post office?).
Social gatherings: Friends and family "hỏi" about each other's well-being, daily activities, or opinions. "Dạo này bạn thế nào? Có gì mới không?" (How have you been lately? Anything new? - implicitly asking).

Anh ấy hỏi tôi có muốn đi xem phim không.

He asks me if I want to go see a movie.
Educational Settings
Students "hỏi" teachers for clarification on lessons, homework, or assignments. "Em xin phép hỏi thầy/cô về bài tập này." (I would like to ask the teacher about this exercise.)
Teachers might "hỏi" students to gauge their understanding. "Ai có câu hỏi gì muốn hỏi không?" (Does anyone have any questions they want to ask?).

Tôi hỏi nhân viên cửa hàng về kích thước.

I ask the shop assistant about the size.
Formal Settings
In job interviews or business meetings, "hỏi" is used for professional inquiries. "Tôi có một vài câu hỏi muốn hỏi về vị trí này." (I have a few questions I want to ask about this position.)
Legal or official contexts: "Luật sư hỏi nhân chứng." (The lawyer asks the witness.)

By exposing yourself to Vietnamese media like movies, TV shows, and podcasts, you'll quickly notice how frequently "hỏi" is used. It's a verb that underpins much of Vietnamese daily communication.

Avoiding Pitfalls with "Hỏi"

While "hỏi" is a common verb, learners sometimes make mistakes that can lead to misunderstandings. Being aware of these common errors will help you use the word more accurately and naturally.

Mistake 1: Overusing "Hỏi" for Statements of Fact
Using "hỏi" when you simply want to state a fact or ask for confirmation of something obvious. "Hỏi" is for seeking new information or clarification.
Incorrect: Tôi hỏi trời đang mưa. (I ask that it is raining - This doesn't make sense; you'd just state it: Trời đang mưa.)
Correct: Trời đang mưa. (It is raining.)
Mistake 2: Confusing "Hỏi" with "Nói" (to speak/say)
Mixing up "hỏi" (to ask) with "nói" (to speak or say). These verbs have distinct meanings and functions.
Incorrect: Anh ấy hỏi tôi "Xin chào". (He asks me "Hello". - This should be "nói".)
Correct: Anh ấy nói với tôi "Xin chào". (He says "Hello" to me.)
Mistake 3: Incorrect Sentence Structure
Placing "hỏi" in an unnatural position within the sentence, or omitting necessary components like the subject or object when needed for clarity.
Incorrect: Tôi hỏi bạn đi đâu. (Slightly awkward; better to be more specific or use a question word.)
Correct: Tôi hỏi bạn đi đâu vậy? (I ask where you are going?) or Tôi hỏi bạn đang đi đâu. (I ask where you are going.)

Đừng hỏi tôi điều tôi không biết.

Don't ask me what I don't know.

Cô giáo hỏi học sinh trả lời câu hỏi.

The teacher asks the students to answer the question.

Paying attention to how native speakers use "hỏi" in different contexts is the best way to avoid these mistakes. Listen actively and try to mimic their sentence structures.

Exploring Alternatives to "Hỏi"

While "hỏi" is the most common and general verb for 'to ask', Vietnamese has other words and phrases that can convey similar meanings or are used in specific contexts. Understanding these distinctions will add nuance to your vocabulary.

'Hỏi' vs. 'Thỉnh cầu' (to request/plead)
'Hỏi' is a neutral verb for asking questions. 'Thỉnh cầu' implies a more formal or humble request, often for something significant or difficult to obtain.
Example: Tôi hỏi giờ. (I ask the time.) vs. Anh ấy thỉnh cầu sự giúp đỡ của mọi người. (He pleads for everyone's help.)
'Hỏi' vs. 'Vấn' (to ask - formal/written)
'Vấn' is a more formal, often literary or written, term for 'to ask' or 'to question'. You'll see it in formal documents or more academic contexts.
Example: Giáo sư hỏi sinh viên. (The professor asks the students - common) vs. Vấn đề được đặt ra để vấn đáp. (The issue was raised for questioning and answering - formal, written).
'Hỏi' vs. 'Trao đổi' (to exchange/discuss)
'Trao đổi' involves a two-way exchange of ideas or information, not just asking a question. It's more about discussion.
Example: Chúng tôi hỏi về dự án. (We ask about the project - seeking information) vs. Chúng tôi trao đổi về dự án. (We discuss the project - sharing ideas).

Bạn có thể hỏi bất cứ điều gì bạn muốn.

You can ask anything you want.
Implicit Asking
Often, the act of asking is implied without using the verb "hỏi" explicitly. For example, in a shop, you might point to an item and say "Cái này bao nhiêu?" (How much is this?), which clearly implies you are asking for the price.
Example: "Cho tôi một ly cà phê." (Give me a cup of coffee.) This is a request, implicitly asking if it's possible or ordering.
Phrases for Asking Questions
You'll frequently hear phrases like "Cho tôi hỏi..." (Let me ask...) or "Tôi muốn hỏi..." (I want to ask...).

Tôi hỏi đường đi đến chợ Bến Thành.

I ask for the way to Ben Thanh Market.

Focus on mastering "hỏi" first, as it covers the vast majority of situations where you need to ask something. As your proficiency grows, you can then explore these more specific or formal alternatives.

Exemples par niveau

1

Bạn tên gì?

What is your name?

Simple question asking for personal information.

2

Tôi hỏi đường đi đến trường.

I ask for the way to school.

Using 'hỏi' to seek directions.

3

Bao nhiêu tiền?

How much money? (Implicitly asking for price)

Common phrase implying 'I ask for the price'.

4

Bạn có khỏe không?

Are you well? (A common greeting that is a form of asking)

A common question for well-being.

5

Đây là cái gì?

What is this?

Asking for identification of an object.

6

Anh ấy hỏi tôi có ăn cơm chưa.

He asks me if I have eaten yet.

Indirect question structure.

7

Tôi hỏi mẹ mua gì.

I ask mom what to buy.

Asking for advice or a suggestion.

8

Bạn có muốn uống nước không?

Do you want to drink water? (A polite offer that is a form of asking)

Asking about someone's preference.

1

Tôi muốn hỏi bạn về công việc của bạn.

I want to ask you about your job.

Asking for information about a familiar topic.

2

Bạn có thể cho tôi biết khi nào chuyến bay cất cánh không?

Can you tell me when the flight departs?

Asking for specific information.

3

Cô ấy hỏi tôi có rảnh vào cuối tuần không.

She asks me if I am free on the weekend.

Indirect question about availability.

4

Họ đang hỏi ý kiến của mọi người.

They are asking for everyone's opinion.

Asking for opinions.

5

Anh ấy hỏi tôi tại sao tôi lại buồn.

He asks me why I am sad.

Asking 'why' questions.

6

Chúng tôi hỏi về giá của căn hộ.

We ask about the price of the apartment.

Inquiring about prices in a more detailed manner.

7

Bạn có thể hỏi giúp tôi xem họ có còn hàng không?

Can you ask for me if they still have stock?

Asking someone to ask another person.

8

Tôi hỏi giáo viên cách giải bài toán này.

I ask the teacher how to solve this math problem.

Seeking help or instruction.

1

Tôi muốn hỏi thêm thông tin về khóa học này.

I want to ask for more information about this course.

Requesting detailed information.

2

Bạn có thể cho tôi biết ý kiến của bạn về vấn đề này không?

Can you tell me your opinion on this matter?

Asking for opinions on a specific issue.

3

Anh ấy đã hỏi tôi liệu tôi có thể giúp anh ấy chuyển nhà không.

He asked me if I could help him move house.

Indirect question about a favor.

4

Chúng tôi đã hỏi lý do tại sao dự án bị trì hoãn.

We asked the reason why the project was delayed.

Asking for explanations for delays or problems.

5

Cô ấy hỏi tôi có biết ai là người phụ trách bộ phận đó không.

She asks me if I know who is in charge of that department.

Asking for contact information or responsibility.

6

Tôi đã hỏi về các lựa chọn thanh toán có sẵn.

I asked about the available payment options.

Inquiring about practical details.

7

Họ hỏi xem liệu có thể đặt bàn cho sáu người vào tối mai không.

They ask if it's possible to book a table for six people for tomorrow night.

Making a reservation, which involves asking about availability.

8

Bạn có thể cho tôi lời khuyên về việc nên học ngành gì không?

Can you give me advice on what major to study?

Asking for advice.

1

Tôi muốn hỏi ý kiến của bạn về chiến lược tiếp thị mới.

I want to ask your opinion on the new marketing strategy.

Seeking professional opinions on business matters.

2

Anh ấy đã hỏi tôi về những thách thức mà tôi đã đối mặt trong dự án.

He asked me about the challenges I faced in the project.

Asking about past experiences and challenges.

3

Cô ấy đã hỏi liệu tôi có thể giải thích rõ hơn về quan điểm của mình không.

She asked if I could explain my viewpoint more clearly.

Asking for clarification on a viewpoint.

4

Chúng tôi đã hỏi về các biện pháp phòng ngừa cần thiết để đảm bảo an toàn.

We asked about the necessary precautions to ensure safety.

Inquiring about safety measures.

5

Anh ta hỏi liệu tôi có biết bất kỳ nguồn tài trợ nào cho dự án nghiên cứu của mình không.

He asked if I knew of any funding sources for his research project.

Asking about resources or opportunities.

6

Tôi đã hỏi về các tác động tiềm ẩn của quyết định này đối với môi trường.

I asked about the potential impacts of this decision on the environment.

Asking about potential consequences.

7

Họ đã hỏi liệu có khả năng hợp tác quốc tế trong lĩnh vực này không.

They asked about the possibility of international cooperation in this field.

Inquiring about collaboration possibilities.

8

Bạn có thể cho tôi biết quan điểm của bạn về vấn đề đạo đức trong trí tuệ nhân tạo không?

Can you tell me your perspective on the ethical issues in artificial intelligence?

Engaging in a debate or discussion on complex topics.

1

Tôi muốn hỏi sâu hơn về cơ chế hoạt động của hệ thống này.

I want to inquire more deeply into the operating mechanism of this system.

Seeking in-depth technical understanding.

2

Anh ấy đã hỏi liệu tôi có thể cung cấp bằng chứng cụ thể nào để củng cố luận điểm của mình không.

He asked if I could provide any concrete evidence to support my argument.

Asking for substantiation of claims.

3

Cô ấy đã hỏi về những hệ lụy tiềm tàng của việc áp dụng công nghệ mới này.

She asked about the potential repercussions of adopting this new technology.

Inquiring about long-term consequences.

4

Chúng tôi đã hỏi về các phương pháp tiếp cận khác nhau để giải quyết vấn đề biến đổi khí hậu.

We asked about different approaches to address the issue of climate change.

Exploring diverse solutions to complex problems.

5

Anh ta đã hỏi liệu tôi có thể làm rõ vai trò của mình trong quá trình ra quyết định đó không.

He asked if I could clarify my role in that decision-making process.

Seeking clarification on responsibilities in a process.

6

Tôi đã hỏi về những yếu tố nào đã góp phần vào sự thành công hay thất bại của chiến dịch trước đó.

I asked about the factors that contributed to the success or failure of the previous campaign.

Analyzing past events to understand outcomes.

7

Họ đã hỏi liệu có khả năng tái cấu trúc lại bộ máy tổ chức để tối ưu hóa hiệu quả hoạt động không.

They asked about the possibility of restructuring the organizational framework to optimize operational efficiency.

Proposing and inquiring about organizational changes.

8

Bạn có thể cho tôi biết quan điểm của bạn về những diễn biến gần đây trong bối cảnh địa chính trị khu vực không?

Can you tell me your perspective on the recent developments in the region's geopolitical landscape?

Discussing complex and evolving situations.

1

Tôi muốn hỏi về những ngụ ý sâu xa đằng sau tuyên bố đó.

I want to inquire about the deeper implications behind that statement.

Probing for subtle meanings and implications.

2

Anh ấy đã hỏi liệu tôi có thể phân tích các yếu tố nền tảng đã định hình nên tư tưởng triết học đó không.

He asked if I could analyze the foundational elements that shaped that philosophical thought.

Analyzing the origins of complex ideas.

3

Cô ấy đã hỏi về những khía cạnh tinh tế của luật pháp quốc tế liên quan đến chủ quyền lãnh thổ.

She asked about the subtle aspects of international law concerning territorial sovereignty.

Discussing intricate legal nuances.

4

Chúng tôi đã hỏi về những con đường khác nhau mà nghệ thuật có thể dẫn dắt sự phát triển của ý thức con người.

We asked about the different paths art can lead to the development of human consciousness.

Exploring abstract connections between disciplines.

5

Anh ta đã hỏi liệu tôi có thể làm sáng tỏ những mâu thuẫn tồn tại trong lý thuyết kinh tế học cổ điển không.

He asked if I could elucidate the contradictions present in classical economic theory.

Clarifying inherent inconsistencies in complex theories.

6

Tôi đã hỏi về những bằng chứng khảo cổ học nào có thể xác nhận hoặc bác bỏ các giả thuyết về nền văn minh cổ đại.

I asked about what archaeological evidence could confirm or refute hypotheses about ancient civilizations.

Seeking evidence to validate historical claims.

7

Họ đã hỏi liệu có khả năng tái định nghĩa lại các khái niệm cơ bản trong vật lý lượng tử dựa trên những khám phá mới nhất không.

They asked about the possibility of redefining fundamental concepts in quantum physics based on the latest discoveries.

Questioning foundational principles in advanced science.

8

Bạn có thể cho tôi biết quan điểm của bạn về những tác động tiềm ẩn của sự phát triển công nghệ đối với bản sắc văn hóa nhân loại không?

Can you tell me your perspective on the potential impacts of technological development on human cultural identity?

Discussing profound, far-reaching societal impacts.

Collocations courantes

hỏi đường
hỏi giá
hỏi thăm sức khỏe
hỏi ý kiến
hỏi han
hỏi một câu
hỏi xin
hỏi tội
hỏi cưới
hỏi bài

Phrases Courantes

Cho tôi hỏi...

Tôi muốn hỏi...

Bạn có câu hỏi nào không?

Hỏi gì vậy?

Hỏi thăm sức khỏe

Hỏi đường

Hỏi ý kiến

Hỏi đáp

Hỏi bài

Hỏi tội

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