khét lẹt
[xɛt̚˧˦ lɛt̚˧˨ʔ]
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
(adjective) having a burnt and unpleasant smell
Adjective
Where it’s used:
Used
Toàn quốc & hải ngoại · Vietnam-wide & diaspora
Examples
Gạo trong lon cháy khét lẹt, khói mù.The rice in the can burnt with an unpleasant smell and blinding smoke.
Wiktionary example (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Sources & notes
Imported from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-29); community review pending. source ↗
Common questions
What does “khét lẹt” mean?
(adjective) having a burnt and unpleasant smell
Is “khét lẹt” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.