thêm
[tʰem˧˧]
The English word 'extra' is translated into Vietnamese as thêm.
thêm is used to describe something that is beyond what is due or usual. It can function as an adjective meaning 'extra' or an adverb meaning 'more' or 'additionally'.
Meaning: beyond what is due, usual (adj)
Which one should you use?
While thêm refers to an additional amount or item, the related word cực is used as an intensifier to mean 'extraordinarily' or 'extremely' in a different sense.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
In Vietnamese, thêm is frequently placed before a noun to indicate an additional item, such as thêm một vé (an extra ticket).
Did you know?
- The word thêm shares a common linguistic root with the Thai word แถม and the Khmer word ថែម, showing a deep historical connection between these Southeast Asian languages.
- In Vietnamese street food culture, asking for thêm often refers to asking for extra broth, noodles or herbs, which are frequently provided for free as a gesture of hospitality.
- In certain contexts, using thêm can imply a desire for more of a feeling, such as thêm yêu meaning to love someone 'even more' or 'extra'.
Examples in context
- bạn đã có nhận được thêm 1 vé chưa?Did you get an extra ticket?This sentence is useful for asking if someone has received an extra ticket using thêm.Tatoeba #12528540 by thanhcona40, translation #12528495 by CK
- Bạn có thể cho tôi thêm bát canh, được không?Can you give me an extra bowl of soup?
- Tôi cần thêm thời gian.I need more time.
- Cô ấy muốn thêm một chút đường.She wants a little more sugar.
Example conversation
Hùng and Chi are at a restaurant.
- HùngChi ơi, mình gọi thêm nước nhé?Chi, shall we order some extra water?
- ChiĐược đó, tôi cũng đang khát.That sounds good, I am thirsty too.
- HùngTôi sẽ gọi thêm một chai nữa.I will order one extra bottle.
- ChiCảm ơn Hùng nhé.Thank you, Hùng.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “extra” translations and entries thêm, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries thêm, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
