chết tiệt
The English phrase "dang" can be translated into Vietnamese as chết tiệt.
The phrase chết tiệt is used as an exclamation to express frustration, anger or annoyance, serving a similar function to "damn it" in English.
What does it mean word for word?
The word tiệt within the phrase means "completely" or "utterly".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
chết tiệt is an informal expression. Depending on the context, it can be perceived as mildly rude or vulgar.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Northern Vietnam, the expression Ôi chao is commonly used to express surprise or frustration.
When do people say it?
While chết tiệt expresses frustration, other informal exclamations like Eo ôi can be used to mean "Oh no" or "Oh my".
Did you know?
- While it translates to 'dang' or 'damn', chết tiệt literally suggests a death that is 'cut off' or 'total'. It combines the word for 'die' with a term meaning 'to sever'.
- Because chết means 'to die', using chết tiệt can feel much heavier to a native speaker than a mild 'dang' does to an English speaker.
Examples in context
- Thật đáng tiếc bạn không thể tới buổi tiệc.What a shame you can't come to the party.
- Chết tiệt, tôi lại quên chìa khóa rồi.Damn, I forgot my keys again.
- Trời ơi, chết tiệt thật chứ!Oh my god, damn it!
- Chết tiệt, xe tôi bị hỏng rồi.Damn, my car broke down.
Example conversation
Nam and Hương are stuck in heavy traffic during a rainstorm.
- NamChết tiệt, kẹt xe quá!Damn, the traffic is so jammed!
- HươngAnh bình tĩnh lại đi, Nam.Calm down, Nam.
- NamNhưng chúng ta sẽ bị muộn mất.But we are going to be late.
- HươngĐừng cáu kỉnh như vậy nữa.Don't be so irritable.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries chết, chết tiệt, tiệt, CC BY-SA 4.0.
