bà lớn
Definition
Noun: 1. Madam; a respectful term of address or reference for a woman of high social status, authority, or age: Historically used for the wife of a high-ranking official (mandarin) or a woman of significant standing within a family or community. In modern contexts, it can refer respectfully to a female boss, leader, or a woman of considerable influence. 2. (Archaic) The wife of a high-ranking official (mandarin): A specific historical usage denoting the spouse of a senior government officer in feudal Vietnam.
Usage Examples
- (Everyone in the company respects the Madam/boss very much.)
- (In the old days, the wife of the mandarin in the official's residence was highly revered.)
- (Remember to greet the Madam when she visits the house.)
Advanced Usage
- The term inherently carries a tone of formality and respect. It is less commonly used in casual, everyday conversation among peers and more typical in hierarchical settings (e.g., within a family business, traditional workplace) or when referring to elderly female figures of authority.
- It can sometimes be used humorously or ironically to refer to one's wife in a joking manner among friends, implying she is the one "in charge."
Variants and Related Words
- Bà: A more general and common term for an older woman, Mrs., or Madam. "Bà lớn" adds a layer emphasizing higher status or authority.
- Phu nhân: A formal term meaning "wife" or "Madam," often used for the wives of dignitaries or officials. It is a synonym in formal/archaic contexts.
- Nữ chủ: Means "female owner" or "mistress," which can overlap in contexts of authority within a household or establishment.
Synonyms
- Madam: A polite form of address for a woman.
- Matriarch: A woman who is the head of a family or tribe.
- Doyenne: The most respected or prominent woman in a particular field.
Related Phrases/Idioms
- Làm lớn: To act important or authoritative. While not containing "bà lớn," it shares the root "lớn" (big, great) related to status.
- Anh ta mới được thăng chức đã làm lớn với đồng nghiệp cũ. (He just got promoted and is already acting important with his old colleagues.)
noun
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Madam
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Từ chứa "bà lớn"
Proverbs and Idioms
