sâu răng
[səw˧˧ zaŋ˧˧]word by word
The English word cavity is translated into Vietnamese as sâu răng.
The term refers to a hole and soft area in tooth caused by caries.
Meaning: hole and soft area in tooth caused by caries (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
In the phrase sâu răng, the word sâu literally means deep / rotten / decayed.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase sâu răng is used as both a noun (the cavity/decay) and a verb (to have a cavity) in Vietnamese.
Did you know?
- In Vietnamese folklore, the word sâu used for cavities refers to the 'tooth worm' believed to eat holes into the teeth.
- The word sâu in sâu răng can mean 'deep' but it is also used to mean 'worm' in Vietnamese.
- While Vietnamese uses the concept of 'decaying teeth', Japanese speakers use the term mushiba, which literally translates to 'bug tooth'.
Examples in context
- Tôi bị sâu răng.I have a cavity.
- Bé bị sâu răng rất nhiều.The baby has many cavities.
- Sâu răng rất đau.A cavity is very painful.
Example conversation
Nam and Hương are talking about dental health at a cafe.
- NamHương ơi, răng của bạn có đau không?Hương, does your tooth hurt?
- HươngCó, hình như mình bị sâu răng rồi.Yes, it seems like I have a cavity.
- NamBạn nên đi khám bác sĩ ngay.You should go see a doctor immediately.
- HươngCảm ơn Nam, mình sẽ đi sớm.Thanks Nam, I will go soon.
