cột cái
Definition
- Noun:
- Main column / Principal pillar: The central and most important structural pillar in a traditional Vietnamese wooden house, typically the largest and strongest column that supports the main roof beam.
- Central pillar: Refers to the core, load-bearing pillar, often symbolizing the strength and stability of the structure or family.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Ngôi nhà gỗ cổ có một cột cái rất lớn. (The ancient wooden house has a very large main column.)
- Cột cái chống đỡ toàn bộ mái nhà. (The principal pillar supports the entire house roof.)
- Trong kiến trúc nhà gỗ truyền thống, cột cái là trụ cột chính. (In traditional wooden house architecture, the cột cái is the main pillar.)
Advanced Usage
- The term is specific to traditional Vietnamese architecture and carries cultural significance, often representing the lineage or the "pillar" of the family.
- In a metaphorical sense, it can be used to describe a key person or foundational element in an organization.
Variants and Related Words
Cột con (n): A smaller, auxiliary pillar in a traditional house framework.
- Các cột con hỗ trợ cho cột cái. (The auxiliary pillars support the main column.)
Cột nhà (n): A general term for any house column or pillar.
- Những cột nhà được làm từ gỗ lim. (The house pillars are made of ironwood.)
Synonyms
- Main pillar: The primary supporting column.
- Central column: A column situated in the center, bearing major loads.
- King post: A structural element in some roof frameworks (though this is a more specific technical term).
Related Concepts
- Kèo (n): Rafter; the sloping beam supported by the pillars.
- Xà (n): Crossbeam; a horizontal beam connecting pillars.
- Nhà gỗ ba gian (n): A three-bay wooden house, a common style where the is a defining feature.