bần tiện

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The Vietnamese word "bần tiện" is an adjective that describes someone or something as poor or poverty-stricken, but it also carries a deeper meaning of being mean or ignoble. Let's break down its usage and some related aspects.

Basic Meaning

1. Poor or Poverty-Stricken: It describes a state of being very poor, lacking in basic necessities.

   • Example: "Gia đình họ rất bần tiện" means "Their family is very poor."

2. Mean or Ignoble: It refers to a person who behaves in a mean or despicable way, lacking nobility or moral integrity.

   • Example: "Anh ta là một người bần tiện" means "He is a mean person."

Usage Instructions

• "Bần tiện" can be used to describe people (con người bần tiện) or actions (việc làm bần tiện) that are considered lowly or unethical.
• When using "bần tiện" in a sentence, it usually precedes the noun it describes.

Advanced Usage

• "Bần tiện" can also be used in a more philosophical or moral context to discuss the ethical implications of poverty and behavior.
• For example, discussing societal issues: "Trong xã hội, sự bần tiện không chỉ là về tiền bạc mà còn về nhân cách" means "In society, poverty is not just about money but also about character."

Word Variants

• Bần: This part means "poor" or "destitute."
• Tiện: This part can mean "convenient" or "cheap," but in this context, it contributes to the idea of something being lowly or mean.

Different Meanings

While "bần tiện" primarily focuses on poverty and meanness, it can also imply a lack of refinement or sophistication in behavior or lifestyle.

Synonyms

• Nghèo khổ: This means "poor" or "destitute."
• Tiện nghi: While this means "convenient," in certain contexts, it can imply a lack of quality or value.
• Thấp hèn: This translates to "lowly" or "despicable," emphasizing a lack of moral standards.

Academic

adj

1. Poor, poverty-stricken
2. Mean, ignoble
   • con người bần tiện
     a mean person
   • việc làm bần tiện
     a mean action