Lesson 13: Sentence-final particles

Vietnamese uses small words called particles at the end of sentences to add mood, emotion, or politeness. They function like "flavor words" that shape how the sentence feels.

Politeness with "ạ"

The particle ạ is used at the very end of a sentence to show respect to someone older or higher in status. It doesn't change the meaning, only the tone.

Chào cô ạ.
"Hello (ma'am)."

Con cảm ơn mẹ ạ.
"Thank you, Mom."

Agreement with "nhé"

Use nhé to suggest something or check that the other person is okay with a plan. It translates roughly to "okay?" or "shall we?"

Chúng ta đi nhé?
"Shall we go, okay?"

Ăn cơm nhé!
"Let's eat, okay!"

Confirmation with "à" and "hả"

À expresses realization or mild surprise.

Anh là người Mỹ à?
"Oh, so you are American?"

Hả is a casual way to convert a statement into a question, like "huh?" or "right?"

Đẹp hả?
"It's beautiful, right?"

Shared Sentiment with "nhỉ"

Use nhỉ to invite the other person to agree with your observation, or when musing to yourself.

Hôm nay trời đẹp nhỉ?
"It's a beautiful day, isn't it?"

Examples

Em chưa biết à?
"You don't know yet? (Oh!)"

Nóng quá nhỉ?
"It's so hot, don't you think?"

Đi chơi nhé?
"Let's go out, okay?"

These particles are the "secret sauce" of natural Vietnamese. Ạ is the safest one to use for politeness. Nhé is very friendly and common. Listen to the tone of voice people use with these words—that melody is part of the grammar.