Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • Yu the Great: The legendary founder of the Xia Dynasty in ancient China, renowned for his extraordinary engineering and leadership in controlling the Great Flood.
   • A historical/mythological figure: Refers specifically to the sage-king who succeeded Emperor Shun and established China's first hereditary dynasty, the Xia.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Hạ Vũ là một vị vua huyền thoại trong lịch sử Trung Quốc. (Yu the Great is a legendary king in Chinese history.)
  • Câu chuyện về Hạ Vũ trị thủy rất nổi tiếng. (The story of Yu the Great taming the floods is very famous.)

Advanced Usage

• The name "Hạ Vũ" is often invoked in contexts discussing ancient Chinese mythology, the origins of Chinese civilization, or as a metaphor for perseverance and successful large-scale public works.
  • Tinh thần kiên trì của Hạ Vũ được nhiều người ca ngợi. (The persevering spirit of Yu the Great is praised by many.)

Variants and Related Words

• Đại Vũ (proper noun): Another name for Yu the Great, emphasizing "Đại" meaning "Great".
• Nhà Hạ (proper noun): The Xia Dynasty, which was founded by Yu.

Synonyms

• Yu the Great: The standard English translation.
• Emperor Yu: A common alternative reference.

Related Idioms and Cultural References

• "Hạ Vũ trị thủy" (Yu the Great controls the waters): A set phrase referring to his most famous achievement. It symbolizes overcoming immense, seemingly uncontrollable natural disasters through tireless effort and wisdom.
  • Để giải quyết vấn đề này, chúng ta cần tinh thần "Hạ Vũ trị thủy". (To solve this problem, we need the spirit of "Yu the Great taming the floods".)