chín khúc
Definition
- Noun:
- The nine sections of the intestines (archaic, literary): A poetic, classical Vietnamese term referring to the intestines or innards, often used metaphorically to represent deep, visceral emotions or the very core of one's being.
- One's innermost feelings, heart, or guts: Used figuratively to describe profound emotional turmoil, anxiety, or heartfelt concern.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Khi vò chín khúc, khi chau đôi mày. (Now twisting his guts in anguish, now knitting his brows in worry.)
- Nỗi lo ấy khiến chín khúc như thắt lại. (That worry makes one's very guts feel tied in knots.)
Advanced Usage
- The term "chín khúc" is almost exclusively found in classical poetry and literary works. Its usage in modern Vietnamese is very rare and would be considered highly stylized or deliberately archaic.
- It is a vivid example of a "từ Hán Việt" (Sino-Vietnamese word) where "chín" (nine) and "khúc" (section, bend) combine to form a specific, metaphorical anatomical reference.
Variants and Related Words
- Lòng dạ: Heart, innards, mind (a more common term for one's inner feelings or intentions).
- Ruột gan: Guts, innards (a common idiom meaning one's deepest feelings, similar to "heart and soul" in English).
- Tâm can: Heart and liver (another classical term for one's innermost self or conscience).
Synonyms
- Lòng: Heart, mind.
- Dạ: Stomach, heart (archaic/poetic).
- Nội tạng: Internal organs (literal, medical).
Related Idioms
- "Nóng ruột nóng gan": To be hot in the guts and liver; meaning to be very impatient or anxious.
- "Thắt ruột thắt gan": To have one's guts and liver tied in knots; meaning to be in great emotional pain or distress. This idiom carries a similar metaphorical force as "chín khúc".