Definition

1. Noun: - Cloud shadow: Literally refers to the shadow or image of a cloud. - Cloud: Used figuratively to represent a worry, trouble, or a negative element that obscures happiness or a bright future.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Hạnh phúc không chút bóng mây. (Happiness without a single cloud.)
  • Tương lai đầy bóng mây. (A future full of clouds / A clouded future.)
  • Trên mặt hồ in rõ bóng mây trắng. (The white cloud's reflection is clear on the lake's surface.)

Advanced Usage

• "bóng mây" as a metaphor: Almost exclusively used in a figurative sense to symbolize obstacles, sadness, or uncertainty casting a shadow over a positive situation (like happiness, peace, or the future).
  • Cuộc sống của họ giờ đây đã hết bóng mây. (Their life now is free of clouds / troubles.)

Variants and Related Words

• Mây (n): Cloud. The base word.
• Bóng (n): Shadow, reflection, image. The base word.
• Âm u (adj): Gloomy, overcast. Describes a similar state of being clouded over, often used for weather or mood.

Synonyms

• Nỗi lo (n): Worry, concern.
• Trở ngại (n): Obstacle, hindrance.
• Vấn đề (n): Problem, issue.
• U ám (adj): Gloomy, dark (often for sky or mood).

Related Idioms

• "Bóng mây che phủ": Clouds overshadowing. Emphasizes something being covered or dominated by trouble.
  • Bóng mây chiến tranh che phủ cả vùng đất. (The clouds of war overshadowed the entire land.)