có vẻ — meaning in English: seemingly

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chó

có vẻ

làm

quả

ngày

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'có vẻ' when expressing an opinion about a situation or a person's feelings based on observations. For instance, in casual conversations among friends discussing a recent movie, one might say, 'Cô ấy có vẻ thích phim này.' ('She seems to like this movie.') It can also be used in more formal contexts, such as reporting on someone's behavior in a business meeting.

Synonyms & nuances

'Có vẻ' can be compared to 'hình như' which means 'it seems' or 'perhaps.' While 'hình như' often conveys uncertainty, 'có vẻ' carries a slightly stronger implication that an observation has been made. You would choose 'có vẻ' when you feel more confident about your observation and want to suggest a clearer impression.

Culture

'Có vẻ' translates directly to 'seemingly' in English, but its usage is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture where indirect communication is valued. The phrase reflects the tendency to observe nuances in expression, revealing insights into social dynamics. It has evolved as a way to express subjective impressions without making definitive statements, showcasing the Vietnamese emphasis on harmony and subtlety in conversation.

FAQ

Q.What does 'có vẻ' mean in English?

'Có vẻ' translates to 'seemingly' or 'it seems' in English, indicating an observation or impression about something or someone.

Q.How do I use 'có vẻ' in a sentence?

You can use 'có vẻ' to express opinions or observations, for example, 'Anh ấy có vẻ mệt mỏi.' (He seems tired.) It's often followed by an adjective or a noun phrase.

Q.Is there a mistake I should avoid when using 'có vẻ'?

One common mistake is using 'có vẻ' too definitively. Remember, it conveys an impression rather than a fact, so it should be used to express subjective opinions rather than absolute truths.

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Vietnamese Vocabulary