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bé
/ɓɛ˧˥/
little one
Bé đang ngủ.
The little one is sleeping.
informal
A young child, typically a baby or toddler.
Bé mới sinh được mấy tháng?
How many months old is the baby?
Cô ấy bế bé trên tay.
She is holding the baby in her arms.
Commonly used to address or refer to young children, especially in a affectionate or familiar context.
informal
Small in size or stature.
Căn phòng này bé quá.
This room is too small.
Used to describe objects or spaces that are small.
informal
A term of endearment for someone younger or smaller, often used by elders.
Cháu bé có khỏe không?
Is the little child doing well?
Can be used to refer to a younger sibling or a child in the family.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage in Addressing
Bé is often used by adults to address or refer to young children in a warm, affectionate way. Avoid using it to address someone older unless in a very close, familial context.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
Bé can mean 'child' or 'small' depending on context. Pay attention to whether it refers to a person or an object.
Word Origin
From Proto-Vietic *ɓɛːʔ, ultimately from Proto-Mon-Khmer *ɓɛːʔ. Cognate with Muong *bê, Chut *ɓeːʔ.
Usage Notes
Bé is a very common and affectionate term in Vietnamese, often used in family or close-knit social contexts. It can refer to a child, a small object, or even a term of endearment for someone younger or smaller.
Word Breakdown
bé
young/small
rootTừ Điển Việt Anh