Than phụng
Definition
- Verb Phrase:
- To lament the phoenix: A classical literary phrase expressing profound lamentation over the absence of sage rulers or virtuous governance, often implying one's talents or principles are unrecognized in a corrupt age. It originates from Confucius's sigh about the phoenix not appearing, a symbol that sage leadership is absent.
Usage Examples
- Verb Phrase:
- Nhà nho ấy ngồi than phụng giữa thời buổi loạn lạc. (That scholar sat lamenting the phoenix in an age of chaos.)
- Câu thơ thể hiện tâm trạng than phụng của tác giả trước thời thế. (The verse expresses the author's mood of lamenting the phoenix in the face of the times.)
Advanced Usage
- This phrase is primarily used in classical or highly literary Vietnamese contexts, especially in poetry and philosophical discourse, to convey a deep, melancholic critique of the political or moral state of the world.
Variants and Related Words
Than thân (v): to lament one's fate or circumstances.
- Bà ấy không than phụng mà chỉ than thân. (She does not lament the phoenix but only laments her own fate.)
Thán phục (v): to admire, to hold in high esteem. (Note: This is a distinct, homophonous word with a different meaning and should not be confused with "than phụng".)
Synonyms
- Bemoan the times: To express sorrow or disapproval about the current era.
- Lament the absence of virtue: To grieve over the lack of moral excellence in leadership.
Related Idioms
- Phụng điểu bất chí: The phoenix does not come. This is the direct classical allusion from the of Confucius, meaning the omens of sage rule are absent.
- Tâm trạng "phụng điểu bất chí" thường thấy trong thơ ca cổ điển. (The sentiment of "the phoenix not coming" is often seen in classical poetry.)