cậy cục

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The Vietnamese word "cậy cục" is a verb that means to painstakingly seek help or favors from influential people, often implying that one must go through a tedious process or even offer some form of bribery to obtain what they want. It suggests a reliance on connections or the need to appeal to those in power to achieve a goal.

Usage Instructions:

• "Cậy cục" is generally used in contexts where someone is trying to get something done through the influence of another person. It can have a negative connotation, especially when it involves bribery or unethical practices.

Example:

• Usage in a sentence: "Ngày trước, thường phải cậy cục, đút lót mới xin được việc làm."
  • Translation: "In former times, one used to have to painstakingly entreat or bribe influential people for a job."

Advanced Usage:

In a more advanced context, "cậy cục" can be used to describe complex social dynamics in workplaces or within governmental systems, where favoritism or nepotism plays a significant role in hiring or promotions.

Word Variants:

• "Cậy" (to rely on, to lean on) can be used on its own in other contexts, but it does not carry the same connotation as "cậy cục."
• "Cục" can mean a block or lump in other contexts, but here it contributes to the overall meaning of the phrase.

Different Meanings:

While "cậy cục" primarily refers to seeking favors, in certain contexts, it may also imply a sense of desperation or the idea of begging. However, this is less common.

Academic

verb

1. To painstakingly entreat (influential people) for a favour.
   • ngày trước, thường phải cậy cục, đút lót mới xin được việc làm
     in former times, one used to have to painstakingly entreat or bribe influential people for a job