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In this lesson, we will systematically summarize the diverse usages of the Vietnamese word “lại”, going beyond its most well-known meaning of “again” to include its various other meanings and applications.
The word “lại” has many meanings, and its function changes depending on its position in the sentence. By referring to the structures and examples below, let’s deepen our understanding of how to use “lại”.
Structure ①
Explanation: When “lại” is placed after a verb, it indicates “returning to the original state/place” or “movement towards the speaker”.
Usage ① Return / Back
① Tôi quay lại nhà để lấy sách.
→ I returned back home to get the book.
② Xe buýt này sẽ quay trở lại bến cũ.
→ This bus will return to its original stop.
*Used when a person or thing returns to their original place.
Usage ② Movement towards the speaker
① Đi lại đây.
→ Come over here.
② Kéo ghế lại gần hơn.
→ Pull the chair closer.
③ Con mèo chạy lại phía tôi.
→ The cat ran towards me.
*Used when a person or object moves towards the speaker.
Structure ②
Explanation: When “lại” is placed before a verb (or adjective), it takes on meanings such as “repetition”, “contrast (on the other hand)”, “addition (moreover)”, or “emphasis of emotion”.
Usage ③ Repetition (Again)
① Anh ấy lại đến muộn.
→ He arrived late again.
② Tôi lại quên mang bút.
→ I forgot to bring a pen again.
*Used when repeating an action or event “once more”.
Usage ④ Addition (Moreover / Furthermore)
① Nó vừa thông minh, lại chăm chỉ.
→ He is smart, and moreover, hardworking.
② Sách này hay, tranh minh họa lại đẹp.
→ This book is interesting, and furthermore, the illustrations are beautiful.
③ Quán ăn ngon mà giá lại rẻ.
→ This restaurant is delicious, and moreover, the price is cheap.
*Used to add information or qualities. It has the same meaning as “moreover” or “furthermore”.
Usage ⑤ Contrast (On the other hand / Conversely)
① Tôi thích đi chơi, nó lại không thích.
→ I like going out, but he, on the other hand, does not.
② Mọi người cười, cô ấy lại khóc.
→ Everyone is laughing, but she, conversely, is crying.
③ Không thích bút chì nhưng lại thích bút chì kim.
→ I don’t like wooden pencils, but conversely, I like mechanical pencils.
④ Người thì khen, người lại chê.
→ Some people praise it, while others criticize it.
*Used to express something contrary to expectations or other people’s actions.
Usage ⑥ Surprise / Displeasure / Exclamation
① Lại hỏng nữa rồi!
→ It broke again! (Expressing frustration)
② Sao cậu lại làm thế?
→ Why did you do that? (Expressing surprise/confusion)
③ Trời ơi, lại mưa!
→ Oh my god, it’s raining again!
*Used to express strong emotions of the speaker such as surprise, dismay, or dissatisfaction.