hẻm

See also: Appendix:Variations of "hem"

Vietnamese

Etymology

(This etymology is missing or incomplete. Please add to it, or discuss it at the Etymology scriptorium.)

Pronunciation

• (Hà Nội) IPA^(key): [hɛm˧˩]
• (Huế) IPA^(key): [hɛm˧˨]
• (Saigon) IPA^(key): [hɛm˨˩˦]

Noun

(classifier con, cái) hẻm

1. the narrow space between two large barriers

   hẻm vực ― a canyon

   hẻm núi ― the space between two mountains

2. (by extension) a cul-de-sac (blind alley)

Usage notes

• hẻm in Vietnam are (usually narrow) roads that lead to a dead end, and they are numbered, not named like open streets. Some streets that are so tight they're not eligible for being named and covered in asphalt may also be considered "hẻm".
• Unlike true alleys, which are often concrete walkways or footpaths, hẻm can still be paved with asphalt and open for vehicular traffic.
• For a figurative "dead end", use ngõ cụt instead.

Adjective

hẻm

1. (of an alley) narrow