chư
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Particle: An archaic or literary particle used before certain nouns, primarily titles or kinship terms, to denote a plural or collective group. It conveys a sense of respect and formality when addressing or referring to multiple individuals collectively.
Usage
- Chư is placed directly before the noun it modifies.
- It is used in formal, respectful, or literary contexts. In modern spoken Vietnamese, other structures (like using "các" or repeating the noun) are more common for indicating plurality.
- Its primary function is to pluralize honorifics and formal terms of address.
Usage Examples
- Chư ông, xin mời an tọa. (Gentlemen, please be seated.)
- Lời chào gửi tới chư vị đại biểu. (Greetings to all the delegates.)
- Chư huynh đã giúp đỡ tôi rất nhiều. (My elder brothers have helped me a great deal.)
Advanced Usage
- Chư quân: (Literary) All of you (used by a leader addressing subordinates or troops).
- Chư quân, hãy cùng ta tiến lên! (All troops, advance with me!)
- Chư thần: (Literary/Historical) All the officials; all the vassals.
- Nhà vua triệu tập chư thần vào điện. (The king summoned all his officials to the court.)
Variants and Related Words
- Các: (Particle) The standard, modern particle used to denote the plural form of nouns (e.g., , , ).
- Những: (Classifier) Used before nouns to mean "some," "those," or to indicate an indefinite plural (e.g., - some friends).
Synonyms
- Các vị: A modern, respectful way to say "all of you" or "ladies and gentlemen."
- Tất cả: (Pronoun/Adjective) All, everyone. Used differently, often with "các" (e.g., - all of you).
Notes on Meaning
- Plural Marker: Its core function is to indicate a plural group, specifically of people.
- Formal/Respectful Tone: It inherently adds a layer of formality and respect to the address.
- Archaic/Literary: While still understood, "chư" is not part of everyday modern conversation. It is found in historical texts, formal speeches, period dramas, and certain fixed expressions to evoke a classical or highly respectful tone.
adv
- (Particle denoting plurality)
- chư ông, chư vịgentlemen
- chư huynhelder brothers