Definition

1. Noun:
   • Ferret-badger: A small, nocturnal mammal belonging to the genus Melogale of the weasel family (Mustelidae), native to Southeast Asia. It is characterized by a long body, short legs, and distinctive facial markings.
   • A specific type of small carnivore: Refers specifically to the species Melogale moschata (Chinese ferret-badger) and related species found in Vietnam, known for their musky odor.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Cầy bạc má là loài động vật ăn đêm. (The ferret-badger is a nocturnal animal.)
  • Người ta thường nhận diện cầy bạc má qua các vệt trắng trên mặt. (People often identify the ferret-badger by the white streaks on its face.)

Advanced Usage

• This term is primarily used in zoological, wildlife, and ecological contexts. It is not commonly used in everyday conversation outside of discussions about local fauna or wildlife conservation.
• In some regional contexts, the name may be used by local communities familiar with the animal.

Variants and Related Words

• Cầy: A more general term for various civet and mongoose-like animals.
• Chồn: A general term for weasels, ferrets, and similar mustelids.
• Triết bạc má: Another, less common name for the same animal, emphasizing the "silver-cheeked" characteristic.

Synonyms

• Ferret-badger (English): The direct translation and common name in scientific English.
• Melogale (Scientific Latin): The genus name.

Notes on Meaning

• The term 'cầy bạc má' refers exclusively to the animal. It is a compound noun where 'cầy' indicates a type of small carnivore and 'bạc má' (literally "silver cheeks") describes its distinctive facial markings. It does not have other metaphorical or idiomatic meanings in modern Vietnamese.