Vietnamese also has certain words like honorifics in Korean. “Thưa” and “dạ” are often at the beginning of a sentence in order to express politeness or respect. We can use “Thưa” or “dạ” together with the final polite particle “ạ”.
The difference between them is as follows:
- “Thưa” is often used in a question, for example:
– Thưa ông, ngân hàng ở đâu ạ? (Sir, where is the bank?)
– Thưa bà, gần đây có bưu điện nào không? (Ma’am, is there a post office near here?)
- “Dạ” is often used in an answer, for example:
– Thưa ông, đó là phố nào ạ? (- What street is that?)
– Dạ, đó là phố Tràng Tiền. (- That is Trang Tien street.)
– Thưa bà, kia có phải là hiệu sách không? (- That is a book store, right?)
– Dạ, phải. ( Yes, that’s right.)
– Thưa ông, tôi muốn gặp ông chủ nhiệm khoa. (- I want to meet the Dean of the Faculty.)
– Dạ, xin lỗi bà, ông ấy đi vắng rồi ạ. (- I am sorry, he is out)
NOTE:
“Dạ thưa” is the opening statement for a solemn and polite statement; but sometimes shy and aloof. The word “Yes sir” is commonly used in the public: “Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to have an opinion…” is a way to show respect and politeness.
Good luck with your Vietnamese learning. Leave a comment below if you have any questions!
