cay
Món này ăn rất cay.
This dish is very spicy.
Having a strong, sharp, pungent taste or smell, often causing a burning sensation in the mouth or nose.
Ớt rất cay.
Chili peppers are very spicy.
Nước mắm này cay quá!
This fish sauce is too spicy!
Commonly used to describe food, especially dishes with chili or pepper. Can also describe strong smells (e.g., 'mùi cay' = pungent smell).
Causing a sharp, stinging sensation, often due to cold or irritation.
Gió ngoài trời lạnh và cay.
The wind outside is cold and stinging.
Often used in weather descriptions or when referring to cold air.
In a state of strong excitement, anger, or frustration.
Anh ấy tức cay cú luôn!
He’s always furious!
Used in expressions like 'cay cú' (furious) or 'tức cay' (extremely angry).
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Spiciness Scale
In Vietnamese cuisine, spiciness is often described as 'cay vừa' (moderately spicy), 'cay nồng' (pungent spicy), or 'cay xè' (extremely spicy). Adjust to taste when cooking.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
While 'cay' is commonly used for spiciness, avoid using it for mild heat (e.g., 'cay nhẹ' is redundant). Use 'hơi hăng' or 'có vị cay nhẹ' for mild spiciness.
Word Origin
From Proto-Vietic *kaːj, related to Proto-Mon-Khmer *kaːj (spicy).
Usage Notes
Common in everyday speech, especially in food contexts. In Northern Vietnam, 'cay' is more frequently used for spiciness, while Southern Vietnam may use 'nồng' or 'hăng' interchangeably.