cơ xảo
Definition
- Noun:
- Dexterity; skill; adroitness: Refers to skillful and precise control of movements, especially of the hands and fingers. It implies a refined, often delicate, proficiency in performing a task.
- Artifice; cunning: In a more negative or strategic sense, it can refer to cleverness or craftiness used to achieve an end, though this usage is less common.
Usage Examples
Noun (Dexterity):
- Người thợ chạm bạc có cơ xảo tuyệt vời. (The silversmith has exquisite dexterity.)
- Cô ấy thêu thùa với một cơ xảo đáng kinh ngạc. (She embroiders with incredible skill.)
Noun (Artifice):
- Hắn dùng đủ mọi cơ xảo để đạt được mục đích. (He used all sorts of cunning to achieve his goal.)
Advanced Usage
- This is a somewhat literary or formal term. In modern everyday Vietnamese, words like "sự khéo léo" (dexterity) or "kỹ năng" (skill) are more commonly used for the primary meaning.
Variants and Related Words
Khéo léo (adj): skillful, dexterous, adept.
- Đôi bàn tay khéo léo. (A pair of skillful hands.)
Tinh xảo (adj): exquisite, refined, intricate (often describing craftsmanship).
- Đồ thủ công tinh xảo. (Exquisite handicrafts.)
Synonyms
- Dexterity: Skill in performing tasks, especially with the hands.
- Adroitness: Cleverness or skill in handling a situation or task.
- Artifice: Clever or cunning devices used to trick others.
Notes on Usage
- "Cơ xảo" is a rare and high-register word. It is most likely encountered in classical literature, formal writing, or when describing traditional, high-level craftsmanship. Its use in everyday conversation would sound very formal or archaic.