thảo mai
adjective
Hanoi [tʰaːw˧˩ maːj˧˧]Huế [tʰaːw˧˨ maːj˧˧]Saigon [tʰaːw˨˩˦ maːj˧˧] browser voice
Each syllable carries one of six tones; the mark on the vowel tells you which. How the six tones sound →
Meanings of thảo mai in English
Adjective
- derogatory, slang smarmy or affected with the sole intention to gain approval
Etymology
Sino-Vietnamese word from 草 (“grasses, herbs”) and 梅 (“Prunus mume, Ochna integerrima”); with the figurative connation being "innocent-looking". Apparently a Vietnamese construct.
Frequently asked questions
How do you pronounce thảo mai?
IPA: Hanoi [tʰaːw˧˩ maːj˧˧]; Saigon [tʰaːw˨˩˦ maːj˧˧]. Tones: thảo — dipping tone (hỏi), mai — level tone (ngang).