chim thước
Definitions
- Noun:
- Magpie (specifically the Oriental magpie): A bird species known for its black and white plumage, long tail, and often considered a symbol of good news or fortune in Vietnamese culture.
- (Archaic/Literary): A term used in classical literature to refer to the magpie.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Trên cành cây có một con chim thước đang hót. (There is a magpie singing on the tree branch.)
- Chim thước thường được coi là điềm báo tin vui. (The magpie is often considered an omen of good news.)
Advanced Usage
- "Chim thước báo tin lành": An idiom meaning "the magpie brings good tidings," used to signify the arrival of good news or a fortunate event.
- Nghe tin ấy, tôi mừng như được chim thước báo tin lành. (Hearing that news, I was as happy as if a magpie had brought good tidings.)
Variants and Related Words
- Ác là: Another common Vietnamese name for the magpie (often used interchangeably with 'chim thước' in modern usage, though 'ác là' can sometimes refer more specifically to the Eurasian magpie).
- Chim khách: A more general or regional term for magpies.
Synonyms
- Magpie: The direct English translation.
- Pica (genus): The scientific genus for magpies.
Related Phrases/Idioms
- Chim thước đậu cành mai: Literally "the magpie perches on the apricot branch," a poetic image often associated with spring and happiness.
- Thước báo tin lành / Ác là báo hỷ: Common proverbial phrases meaning "the magpie announces joyful news."