Definition

Pronoun: - We, us (inclusive): A first-person plural pronoun that refers to a group including both the speaker(s) and the listener(s). It is used when the speaker wants to emphasize that the listener is part of the group being discussed.

Usage

• As a subject: Used before a verb to indicate the group performing the action.
  • Chúng ta nên đi. (We should go.)
  • Chúng ta là bạn bè. (We are friends.)
• As an object: Used after a verb or preposition to indicate the group receiving the action.
  • Điều này ảnh hưởng đến chúng ta. (This affects us.)
  • Họ đang nói về chúng ta. (They are talking about us.)

Examples

• (We study together.)
• (The future depends on us.)
• (We can do it!)

Advanced Usage

• Inclusive vs. Exclusive "We": In Vietnamese, "chúng ta" is specifically inclusive, meaning it always includes the listener. This contrasts with "chúng tôi," which is exclusive and refers to a group that does not include the listener.
  • Chúng ta (inclusive): Speaker + Listener + (possibly others).
  • Chúng tôi (exclusive): Speaker + Others, but not the Listener.
• Formal and Collective Contexts: Often used in speeches, writing, or group discussions to create a sense of unity and shared purpose with the audience.
  • Hôm nay, chúng ta sẽ tìm hiểu về lịch sử. (Today, we will learn about history.)

Variants and Related Words

• Chúng tôi (pronoun): We, us (exclusive). Refers to the speaker and others, but explicitly excludes the person being addressed.
  • Chúng tôi sẽ đến sau. (We [my group and I, not you] will come later.)
• Ta (pronoun): We, us (literary/inclusive), or I/me (royal/formal). A more literary or formal pronoun. In modern usage, it can sound poetic, archaic, or be used in proverbs. Historically, it was used by royalty to refer to themselves.
  • Đây là chiến thắng của chúng ta. (This is our victory.) - Similar to "chúng ta" but more formal/poetic.
  • Ta là vua. (I am the king.) - Royal/archaic usage.

Synonyms

• Chúng mình (pronoun): We, us (informal/inclusive). Similar to "chúng ta" but more casual and intimate, often used among close friends, family, or peers.
  • Chúng mình đi xem phim nhé? (Shall we go see a movie?)

1. We, us (including person addressed)