Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Of a socially humble position; lowly; insignificant: Describes a person, group, or thing considered to be of low social status, minor importance, or little influence. It often carries a connotation of being looked down upon or dismissed by those in higher social positions.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Anh ta xuất thân từ một gia đình bè mọn. (He comes from a lowly family.)
  • Họ coi thường những công việc bè mọn. (They look down on menial jobs.)
  • Đó chỉ là một nhóm bè mọn, không có ảnh hưởng gì. (That's just an insignificant group, with no influence.)

Advanced Usage

• Used to emphasize social disparity or contempt: Often used in contrast with powerful or noble groups to highlight social hierarchy or express disdain.
  • Giới quý tộc thường khinh miệt tầng lớp bè mọn. (The aristocracy often despised the lowly class.)

Variants and Related Words

• Hèn mọn (adj): Mean, base, vile. While sometimes used similarly to "bè mọn" for low status, "hèn mọn" more strongly implies moral baseness or despicable character.
• Thấp hèn (adj): Lowly, ignoble. A close synonym focusing on low social standing.
• Tầm thường (adj): Mediocre, ordinary, commonplace. Focuses more on lack of distinction or special quality rather than specifically social status.

Synonyms

• Thấp kém: Inferior, low-grade.
• Không quan trọng: Unimportant, insignificant.
• Tầm thường: Mediocre, ordinary (as mentioned above).

Notes on Meaning

• The term "bè mọn" is inherently pejorative and judgmental. It reflects a perspective that ranks social worth, often from a position of perceived superiority. Its use can reveal bias or class prejudice.
• It primarily describes social position (like family background, occupation, or group status) rather than the inherent qualities of an individual.

1. Of a socially humble position