Không đội chung trời

Definition

1. Idiom:
   • To refuse to share the same sky: A classical Vietnamese idiom expressing an absolute, irreconcilable hatred. It denotes a level of enmity so profound that two parties cannot coexist under the same heaven. It is often used for a sworn enemy, particularly in contexts of vengeance or deep moral injury, such as an enemy of one's father.

Usage Examples

• Idiom:
  • Hắn là kẻ thù không đội chung trời với gia tộc chúng ta. (He is an enemy with whom our clan refuses to share the same sky.)
  • Mối thù ấy đã trở thành không đội chung trời. (That grievance has become an irreconcilable hatred.)

Advanced Usage

• This idiom is rooted in classical Chinese philosophy and Confucian texts, which formalized codes of honor and vengeance. It is a severe and formal declaration, more common in literary, historical, or dramatic contexts than in everyday speech.

Variants and Related Words

• Bất cộng đới thiên (idiom): The Sino-Vietnamese origin of the phrase "không đội chung trời," with identical meaning.
• Thù không đội trời chung (idiom): A common alternative word order with the same meaning.

Synonyms

• Irreconcilable enemy: An enemy with whom no peace or coexistence is possible.
• Sworn foe: An enemy one has pledged to oppose.
• Mortal enemy: A deadly or implacable enemy.

Related Idioms

• Ăn miếng trả miếng: Tit for tat. (This reflects a cycle of retaliation, but is less absolute than "không đội chung trời.")
• Một mất một còn: A life-and-death struggle. (This describes a fight to the finish, which can be the consequence of having an enemy you "refuse to share the same sky" with.)