Basic Phrases
What does “Khỏe không?” mean and when is it used?
“How are you?” – used informally among friends
What’s the main difference between “Bún thịt nướng” and “Bún chả”?
Southern vs Northern styles, grilled pork marinade and sauce differ
When visiting someone’s house, what should you remove before entering?
Shoes
Which city is known as the “Pearl of the Far East”?
Sài Gòn (Ho Chi Minh City)
What does “chill phết” mean?
Super chill / very relaxed
Translate: “Tôi bị lạc rồi.”
I’m lost
What’s “trứng vịt lộn” called in English?
Balut (fertilized duck egg)
What color of envelope is used for lucky money during Tết?
Red or gold
Where would you find Ha Long Bay?
Quảng Ninh Province
Translate: “Nói xạo như Cuội.”
Lying like Cuội (a reference to a folk tale liar)
How would you politely ask someone older than you if they’ve eaten yet?
Cô/chú ăn cơm chưa?”
What is “cơm tấm” literally translated as?
Broken rice
What does it mean when someone says “Chúc bạn năm mới dồi dào sức khỏe”?
"I wish you a healthy new year"
What is the old capital of Vietnam?
Huế
What does “vui như Tết” mean?
As happy as Tet – extremely joyful
What does “Coi như là xong rồi đó” mean?
It’s basically over / That’s pretty much it
In what dish would you find “mắm tôm”?
Bún đậu mắm tôm
Why is giving a pair of shoes as a gift sometimes avoided?
It can symbolize separation or bad luck in relationships
Which city is famous for its lantern festival?
Hội An
What does “bánh cuốn quá” mean when describing someone?
They’re smooth / charming / confident
What’s the subtle difference between “Cảm ơn” and “Cảm ơn nha”?
“Cảm ơn” = formal/neutral; “Cảm ơn nha” = casual, friendly tone
Explain the cultural significance of “ăn Tết.”
It means “celebrating Lunar New Year,” emphasizing eating, family, and luck
What does “đi chùa đầu năm” mean and why do people do it?
Visiting a pagoda at New Year for blessings and good fortune
What’s the tallest mountain in Vietnam?
Fansipan
What’s the meaning of “xanh mặt” in slang?
Turn pale (out of fear/shock) or be terrified