cưu dạ
Definition
- Verb (archaic):
- To harbor in the heart/mind; to bear within one's bosom: This term describes the act of holding a feeling, thought, or intention deep within oneself. It implies a private, internal state that is not openly displayed.
- To have a (particular kind of) heart or mind: It can describe possessing a specific nature or disposition, often with a moral judgment, such as being cruel or greedy.
Usage Examples
- Verb:
- Hắn cưu dạ mối hận thù suốt mười năm. (He harbored a grudge in his heart for ten years.)
- Kẻ cưu dạ tham tàn ắt sẽ bị trừng phạt. (One who bears a cruel and greedy heart will surely be punished.)
Advanced Usage
- This word is primarily found in classical or literary Vietnamese, especially in proverbs, historical texts, or poetic language. It is rarely used in modern everyday conversation.
- It often carries a negative connotation, describing the harboring of malicious intentions or base desires.
Variants and Related Words
- Cưu mang (v): to foster, to nurture, to take care of. This is a more common modern word related to carrying or bearing responsibility or care.
- Cô ấy cưu mang đứa trẻ mồ côi. (She took care of the orphaned child.)
Synonyms
- Harbor: to hold a thought or feeling, typically a negative one, in one's mind.
- Bear: to carry or hold within.
- Nurse: to cherish or foster a feeling, especially a grievance.
Related Idioms
- Cưu dạ tham tàn: to harbor a cruel and greedy heart/mind. This is a set phrase illustrating the word's typical usage to describe a vile character.
- Câu chuyện cảnh cáo những kẻ cưu dạ tham tàn. (The story is a warning to those who harbor cruel and greedy hearts.)