được
[ʔɗɨək̚˧˨ʔ]
The English phrase 'okay' can be translated into Vietnamese as được.
In Vietnamese, được is often used to mean that something is okay, permissible or acceptable. It frequently functions as a verb meaning 'can' or 'to be able to', which is why it is used to express that an action or situation is okay.
Meaning: OK (intj)
Which one should you use?
While được is the standard way to express that something is okay, you can use the negative form không được to specifically state that something is 'not okay' or 'not allowed'.
How does it change in a sentence?
To turn the statement into a question seeking confirmation, such as 'Okay?' or 'Right?', you can add chứ to the end of the word to form được chứ?
Did you know?
- The word được is used in the passive voice to indicate that someone has been 'allowed' or 'fortunate' enough to do something.
- Even though được means 'to get' or 'to obtain' in its original Chinese form, it is the standard way to say something is 'okay' or 'allowed' in everyday Vietnamese.
- When using được to mean 'okay' in a response, the tone and length of the vowel can change the meaning from a polite agreement to a reluctant one.
Examples in context
- Được chứ?Okay?This sentence shows how to use được to ask for confirmation.Tatoeba #14029151 by nhuttan2004, translation #13204578 by Vortarulo
- Vì sao phụ nữ đeo bông tai thì được nhưng đàn ông lại không?Why is it okay for women to wear earrings, but not men?This sentence demonstrates using được to describe what is permissible.Tatoeba #11534443 by OneJanuary, translation #5509198 by mailohilohi
- Miễn sao nó không bị cảm lạnh là được.As long as it doesn't get cold, it's okay.This sentence shows how được can be used to express that a certain condition makes a situation okay.Tatoeba #489437 by khungla, translation #21136 by CK
- Anh ơi, tôi có thể đến muộn 5 phút được không?Excuse me, can I arrive 5 minutes late?
- Bạn sẽ chuẩn bị hồ sơ này cho tôi ngay không?Will you prepare this document for me immediately?
- Cô có thể chỉ cho tôi cách sử dụng phần mềm này được không?Could you show me how to use this software?
- Dạ, tất nhiênYes, of course
- Cách này có được không?Does this method work?
Example conversation
Nam asks Lan if a time for a meeting is acceptable.
- NamSáu giờ chiều nay được không?Is 6 PM this evening okay?
- LanĐược, tôi sẽ đến đúng giờ.Okay, I will be there on time.
- NamLan nhớ mang theo tài liệu nhé.Lan, remember to bring the documents.
- LanVâng, tôi biết rồi.Yes, I know.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry được, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries được, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
