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tiếng Việt
tay — meaning in English: hand
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Guess the translation for
hand
gió
vô hạn
tay
bí ẩn
tâm hồn
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neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers of Vietnamese use the word 'tay' in various everyday situations, such as when discussing manual tasks or expressing affection through gestures. For instance, you might hear it in a sentence like 'Tôi rửa tay' (I wash my hands) or when a parent tells a child 'Cầm tay mẹ' (Hold my hand).
Synonyms & nuances
While 'tay' specifically means 'hand,' the word 'bàn tay' (palm) can refer more to the inner part of the hand. You would use 'tay' in general contexts, while 'bàn tay' might be used when referring to actions that involve the palm specifically, such as 'vỗ bàn tay' (clap hands).
Culture
'Tay' has roots in the ancient Austroasiatic languages, showcasing its long-standing significance in Vietnamese culture. Hands play an essential role in traditional Vietnamese greetings, where a gentle handshake or a touch can signify connection, respect, and care among community members.
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