Definition

1. Noun (archaic, literary):
   • Majestic step / Precious step: A highly respectful and ornate term used to refer to the footsteps or movement of a revered or esteemed person, such as a noble, a superior, or a highly respected guest. It elevates the act of their walking to something delicate and valuable.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Xin ngài dời gót ngọc đến chơi tệ xá. (Please deign to move your majestic steps to visit my humble abode.)
  • Mong được đón tiếp gót ngọc của quý khách. (We hope to welcome the precious steps of our distinguished guest.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is almost exclusively found in formal, poetic, or extremely deferential invitations and requests. Its usage today is very rare and would be considered highly stylized or intentionally archaic, often used to create a classical, respectful, or ironically formal tone.

Variants and Related Words

• Bước chân (n): step, footstep. This is the modern, neutral term.
  • Tiếng bước chân vang lên trong hành lang. (The sound of footsteps echoed in the hallway.)

Synonyms

• Footstep (of an esteemed person): A more direct, less ornate translation.
• Presence: In context, inviting someone's "gót ngọc" is akin to inviting their revered presence.

Related Idioms

• Gót sen: Literally "lotus foot," a term historically used to describe the bound feet of women in ancient China, sometimes used poetically in Vietnamese literature. While both "gót sen" and "gót ngọc" are ornate, "gót sen" is specifically feminine and physical, whereas "gót ngọc" is gender-neutral and focuses on the honor of the movement.
  • Thiếu nữ bước đi với đôi gót sen. (The maiden walked with her lotus feet.)

1. (từ cũ; nghĩa cũ, trtr) Majectic step
   • Xin ngài dời gót ngọc đến chơi tệ xá
     Please bend your majestic steps towards my humble abode