bố ghẻ
Definition
- Noun:
- Stepfather: A man who is married to one's mother but is not one's biological father. The term carries a neutral to slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of biological connection and sometimes a perceived lack of paternal warmth or acceptance, compared to "bố đẻ" (biological father).
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Cậu bé ấy sống cùng với bố ghẻ. (That boy lives with his stepfather.)
- Mối quan hệ giữa cô ấy và bố ghẻ rất căng thẳng. (The relationship between her and her stepfather is very tense.)
Advanced Usage
- The term "bố ghẻ" is less common in modern, neutral speech. The more standard and neutral term is "bố dượng". "Bố ghẻ" may be used in literary or colloquial contexts to subtly emphasize emotional distance or a difficult relationship.
Variants and Related Words
Bố dượng (n): Stepfather (standard, more neutral term).
- Bố dượng tôi rất tốt bụng. (My stepfather is very kind.)
Bố đẻ (n): Biological father.
- Anh ấy giống hệt bố đẻ. (He looks exactly like his biological father.)
Mẹ kế (n): Stepmother.
- Cô ấy có một người mẹ kế nghiêm khắc. (She has a strict stepmother.)
Synonyms
- Stepfather: A man who is married to one's mother but is not one's biological father.
Notes on Usage
- The word "ghẻ" itself means "scab" or "ringworm" and can imply something unwanted, itchy, or irritating. This etymological root contributes to the potentially negative nuance of "bố ghẻ," suggesting a figure who is not fully integrated or accepted as a true parent. It is important to use this term with caution due to its connotation.