What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of tôi (I), cần (need) and bạn (you/friend).
Which one should you use?
While tôi cần bạn is neutral, a romantic partner would more likely use anh cần em (male to female) or em cần anh (female to male) to express 'I need you'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The form tôi cần bạn is a neutral, standard way to express the sentiment, suitable for most general contexts between equals. The phrase Tôi cần anh/chị. is a polite way to express your need for someone.
How does it change in a sentence?
To say 'I need you to do something', you place the infinitive verb directly after tôi cần bạn.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers should be aware that because Vietnamese pronouns change based on social hierarchy, tôi cần bạn may sound overly formal or even slightly distant in close personal relationships.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Tôi cần bạn làm điều đó.I need you to do that.This sentence is useful for showing how to express the need for someone to perform an action using tôi cần bạn.Tatoeba #9010653 by dotheduyet1999, translation #2387808 by CK
- Tôi cần bạn rời khỏi đây.I need you to leave.Tatoeba #3470038 by tucm, translation #2387816 by CK
- Tôi cần bạn giúp tôi một chút.I need you to help me a little.
- 1 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hùng is asking Mai for support during a difficult time.
- Hùng HungMai, tôi cần bạn lúc này.Mai, I need you right now.
- MaiTôi ở đây với bạn, Hùng.I am here with you, Hùng.
- Hùng HungCảm ơn bạn vì đã lắng nghe.Thank you for listening.
- MaiĐừng lo, mọi chuyện sẽ ổn thôi.Don't worry, everything will be fine.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (tôi, cần, bạn) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bạn, cần, tôi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
