Vietnamese Slang (List & Examples)

Vietnamese slang words are commonly used in daily conversation in Vietnam. They add a fun and interesting element to the language. To help you sound like a local, here is a list of 12 common Vietnamese slang words that are used among friends in Vietnam. These words range from expressions of boredom, cheers during drinking sessions, to phrases for when you’re stumped or don’t know something. By familiarizing yourself with these slang terms, you’ll be able to impress native Vietnamese speakers and gain a deeper understanding of the culture.

Key Takeaways:

• Vietnamese slang words are widely used in daily conversations in Vietnam.
• They add a fun and unique element to the Vietnamese language.
• Knowing Vietnamese slang can help you connect with native speakers and understand the culture better.
• Explore our list of common Vietnamese slang words to enhance your language skills.
• By using Vietnamese slang correctly, you can impress locals and blend in with the Vietnamese community.

“Chán như con gián” – Boring like a cockroach

One of the common Vietnamese slang words is “chán như con gián,” which literally means “boring like a cockroach.” The slang phrase is used to express boredom in a humorous way. Although the use of the word “cockroach” may seem unrelated to boredom, it is based on the phonetic similarity between the word “chán” (boring) and the Vietnamese word for cockroach.

Using this slang phrase in conversations with Vietnamese natives will definitely surprise and impress them.

Example:

Person A: “How was your day?”

Person B: “Same old, same old, chán như con gián!”

“Trăm phần trăm” – One hundred percent

When it comes to toasting or cheering with friends in Vietnam, there’s a popular slang phrase that you can use to blend in and participate in the local customs. It’s “trăm phần trăm,” which translates to “one hundred percent” in English. Similar to saying “bottoms up,” this expression signifies that everyone will finish their drink and fully enjoy the moment together.

Using “trăm phần trăm” during a drinking session with Vietnamese friends not only shows your enthusiasm but also adds a touch of local cultural flair to the experience. It’s a great way to bond with your Vietnamese friends and become a part of their social rituals.

To see the phrase in action, here’s an example:

Person A: “Trăm phần trăm! Let’s all raise our glasses and have a great time!”

Learning and using Vietnamese slang expressions like “trăm phần trăm” is a fun way to immerse yourself in the local culture and connect with native speakers. Incorporating these phrases in your conversations will not only help you make friends but also deepen your understanding and appreciation for the Vietnamese language.

With a growing appetite for learning Vietnamese slang, there are numerous resources available online and apps that can help you expand your vocabulary. Exploring these resources and practicing with native speakers will allow you to further enhance your language skills and engage in lively conversations.

Counting and cheering together

In Vietnamese slang, there is a unique phrase for counting and cheering together that adds a lively and fun element to any drinking session. The phrase is:

“một… hai… ba… zô! một… hai… ba… zô! một… hai… ba… uống!”

This phrase is used to count from one to three and then cheer together. It creates a festive atmosphere and encourages everyone to participate in the celebration. Whether you’re raising a glass with friends or enjoying a night out at a local bar, incorporating this Vietnamese slang phrase will undoubtedly make the experience even more enjoyable.

“Bó tay” – Give up

When you find yourself in a situation where you can’t do or say anything more, the Vietnamese slang phrase “bó tay” comes in handy. It translates to “give up” in English and can be used among friends or even in the office. However, it is important to note that this slang phrase should be used with caution and only with colleagues or superiors, as it can be seen as informal and disrespectful in more formal settings.

Here is an example of how “bó tay” can be used:

Friend 1: I’ve been working on this project for hours, but I just can’t figure it out.

Friend 2: Have you tried asking for help?

Friend 1: Yeah, I’ve asked everyone, but no one knows the answer either. I guess I’ll just have to “bó tay”.

So, the next time you find yourself in a challenging situation with no solution in sight, feel free to use the Vietnamese slang phrase “bó tay” to express your frustration and surrender.

“Biết chết liền” – Die if I know

Adding a touch of humor to conversations, “biết chết liền” is a humorous Vietnamese slang phrase that translates to “die if I know.” This phrase is a lighthearted way of admitting that you don’t know the answer to a question. For instance, when someone asks you if you know where someone is, you can playfully respond with “biết chết liền.” It’s a fun and casual expression that adds a humorous twist to the conversation.

Emphasizing the light-hearted nature of Vietnamese slang, “biết chết liền” is just one example of the entertaining phrases you’ll encounter when exploring Vietnamese language slang. Incorporating phrases like these into your conversations will not only make you sound like a local but also bring a smile to the faces of native speakers. So, don’t be afraid to sprinkle some funny Vietnamese slang phrases into your next conversation!

Conclusion

Vietnamese slang is an exciting and dynamic aspect of the language that brings color and character to conversations. By incorporating these slang words into your vocabulary, you can establish deeper connections with Vietnamese natives and demonstrate your appreciation for their culture. However, the slang words we’ve shared here are just the tip of the iceberg. To further explore the world of Vietnamese slang and enhance your language skills, there are numerous online resources and apps available.

These resources offer a wealth of knowledge on popular Vietnamese slang terms, idiomatic expressions, and cultural nuances. They provide comprehensive dictionaries, interactive exercises, and audio recordings, helping you to learn and practice Vietnamese slang effectively. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, these resources cater to all levels of proficiency and make your language learning journey more engaging and immersive.

Learning Vietnamese slang not only adds a playful touch to your language skills but also deepens your understanding of Vietnamese culture. It allows you to connect with locals on a more personal level, enhancing your travel experiences and fostering meaningful friendships. So, dive into the world of Vietnamese slang, explore the resources available, and embrace the vibrant and lively nature of the language.