ăn lộc
Definition
- Verb phrase:
- To receive blessings or favor: The primary meaning refers to receiving grace, blessings, or material benefits, traditionally understood as bestowed by deities, spirits, or ancestors.
- To enjoy benefits or perks: In a modern, extended secular context, it can mean to enjoy benefits, perks, or unearned advantages, often from a position, relationship, or system.
Usage Examples
- Verb phrase:
- Dân làng tổ chức lễ để ăn lộc thần. (The villagers hold a ceremony to receive the deity's blessings.)
- Anh ta được bổ nhiệm vào chức vụ đó chỉ để ăn lộc. (He was appointed to that position just to enjoy the perks.)
Advanced Usage
- The concept is deeply tied to spiritual and cultural practices where offerings are made, and the subsequent consumption of the offered food (like fruit, meat) is seen as partaking in the divine blessing or "lộc."
- It can carry a neutral or slightly negative connotation in modern usage when describing someone benefiting without corresponding contribution.
Variants and Related Words
- Hưởng lộc (v): to enjoy benefits/blessings. A close synonym with a similar range of meanings.
- Lộc (n): blessing, favor, benefit; often refers specifically to the ceremonial food or gifts distributed after a ritual.
Synonyms
- To receive blessings: To be granted favor or grace, especially in a spiritual context.
- To enjoy perks: To benefit from special advantages, especially from a job or status.
Related Idioms
- Ăn lộc vua, tạ ơn vua: Literally "to receive the king's favor, give thanks to the king." Means to remember and be grateful to the source of one's benefits.
- Ăn lộc đất, lộc trời: To receive blessings from the land and heaven; refers to enjoying the natural bounty and fortune.