tiêu cực
[tiəw˧˧ kɨk̚˧˨ʔ]
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
(adjective) negative (inherently damaging; pessimistic)
Where it’s used:
Used
Toàn quốc & hải ngoại · Vietnam-wide & diaspora
Examples
suy nghĩ tiêu cựcto have a negative mindset
biểu hiện tiêu cựcnegative signs/indications
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 ↗
Sense 2
Meaning · English
(noun) clipping of hành vi tiêu cực (“unethical conduct”)
Examples
chống tiêu cựcto fight corruption
Tiêu cực phát sinh tại một số địa phương.A few lapses of ethics occurred in certain municipalities.
Wiktionary example (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Common questions
What does “tiêu cực” mean?
(adjective) negative (inherently damaging; pessimistic)
Is “tiêu cực” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.