Definition

1. Verb:
   • To rule: To exercise ultimate power or authority over a territory, group of people, or political entity, often involving the establishment and enforcement of laws and administrative control.
   • To govern: To conduct the policy, actions, and affairs of a state, organization, or people with formal authority.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Chính quyền thực dân dùng quan lại phong kiến cai trị các tỉnh. (The colonialist regime used feudal mandarins to rule over the provinces.)
  • Nhà vua cai trị vương quốc một cách sáng suốt. (The king ruled the kingdom wisely.)
  • Chế độ đó đã cai trị bằng bạo lực và sợ hãi. (That regime ruled through violence and fear.)

Advanced Usage

• The term often carries a connotation of domination or control, particularly in historical or political contexts involving foreign powers or oppressive systems. It can imply a top-down, authoritative form of governance.

Variants and Related Words

• Cai quản (v): To manage, to administer. This term is often used in a more neutral or organizational context (e.g., managing a company) and lacks the strong political connotation of "cai trị."
  • Cô ấy cai quản một đội ngũ lớn. (She manages a large team.)

Synonyms

• Rule: To have control and authority over a people or region.
• Govern: To conduct the policy and affairs of a state.
• Reign: To hold royal office; to rule as a monarch.
• Dominate: To have a commanding influence over; to exercise control over.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Cai trị bằng nắm đấm sắt: To rule with an iron fist.
  • Nhà độc tài cai trị đất nước bằng nắm đấm sắt. (The dictator ruled the country with an iron fist.)

verb

1. To rule
   • chính quyền thực dân dùng quan lại phong kiến cai trị các tỉnh và các phủ, huyện
     the colonialist regime used feudal mandarins to rule over provinces and districts