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thơm ngát
/tʰəːm˧˧ ŋaːt˧˦/
fragrant
Cánh đồng hoa hướng dương thơm ngát cả buổi sáng.
The sunflower field was fragrant all morning.
neutral
Having a strong, pleasant, and lingering scent; very fragrant.
Mùi hương thơm ngát từ những bông hoa nhài lan khắp phòng.
The scent of jasmine flowers was fragrant throughout the room.
Cà phê thơm ngát lan tỏa khắp căn bếp.
The coffee's aroma was fragrant throughout the kitchen.
Commonly used to describe natural scents like flowers, food, or beverages.
Collocations
Synonyms
Pro Tip
Memory Tip
Associate 'thơm ngát' with the strong, lingering scent of blooming flowers in the morning. The word 'ngát' sounds like 'knock-out' in English, helping you remember the intense fragrance.
Gold Rule
Usage Rule
Always use 'thơm ngát' for pleasant scents. For unpleasant smells, use 'hôi thối' or 'khó chịu'.
Word Origin
Combination of 'thơm' (fragrant) and 'ngát' (strong scent), both native Vietnamese words. 'Thơm' derives from Proto-Vietic *tʰoːm, related to 'smell' or 'aroma'. 'Ngát' comes from Proto-Vietic *ŋaːt, meaning 'strong scent' or 'pungent'. The phrase emphasizes intensity and pleasantness.
Usage Notes
Used for natural scents only (flowers, food, drinks). Not used for artificial fragrances like perfume unless specified. Often appears in descriptive or poetic contexts.
Word Breakdown
thơm
fragrant
rootngát
strong scent
rootTừ Điển Việt Anh