thêm

Thêm is a Vietnamese verb meaning to add, to increase, or to make something additional. It denotes the act of placing an extra element, quantity, or piece of information into something that already exists.

Common usage pattern involves a direct object naming what is being added, for example: thêm đường vào cà phê (add sugar to coffee), thêm thông tin (add information). It also appears in set phrases such as thêm vào (to add to) and thêm nữa (moreover, in addition). In sentences asking for or expressing a request, it can take forms like thêm một người nữa (one more person) or thêm món ăn vào thực đơn (add a dish to the menu).

Nuances and distinctions: thêm emphasizes inclusion of something extra rather than replacing what is already present. It is often contrasted with bổ sung (to supplement) or tăng lên (to increase) depending on context. In sequential instructions or lists, thêm can introduce an additional item or step, signaling continuation rather than substitution.

Syntax and variations: as a root verb, thêm typically requires an object indicating what is added. It can be used with prepositional phrases such as thêm vào to specify the target of the addition. The expression thêm nữa is common in both spoken and written Vietnamese to introduce additional information.

Origin and usage context: thêm is a native Vietnamese term, widely used across informal speech, media, and formal writing. Its versatility makes it a basic tool for expressing the idea of making something larger, more numerous, or more complete.