Definition

1. Noun (archaic, literary):
   • Dear brother: A term of direct address used by an older brother or an older male to affectionately and respectfully refer to a younger brother or a younger male friend.

Usage Notes

• This term is now considered archaic and is primarily found in classical literature, historical texts, or period dramas. It is not used in modern, everyday conversation.
• It reflects the traditional Confucian values of hierarchy and respect within relationships, where age and seniority are emphasized.
• The speaker uses this term from a position of seniority or elder status.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Hiền đệ, hãy nghe lời huynh. (Dear brother, please listen to your elder brother's words.)
  • "Hiền đệ của ta, chuyến đi này nguy hiểm lắm," vị trưởng lão nói. ("My dear brother, this journey is very dangerous," the elder said.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is part of a traditional system of kinship address. It is often paired with "hiền huynh" (dear elder brother) in dialogues between sworn brothers or close male friends in a literary context.
  • Hiền huynh và hiền đệ cùng nhau lập nghiệp. (The dear elder brother and the dear younger brother built their careers together.)

Variants and Related Words

• Hiền huynh (n, archaic): Dear elder brother. A term for an older brother or older male friend.
• Hiền muội (n, archaic): Dear younger sister. A term for a younger sister or younger female friend.
• Hiền tỷ (n, archaic): Dear elder sister. A term for an older sister or older female friend.

Synonyms

• Younger brother (in direct address, though without the affectionate/respectful nuance of "hiền").
• Brother (a more general, modern equivalent).

Related Idioms

• Huynh đệ như thủ túc: Brothers are like limbs. An idiom meaning brothers are as close and indispensable as one's own hands and feet.
  • Họ thực sự là huynh đệ như thủ túc. (They are truly brothers as close as limbs.)

1. (từ cũ; nghĩa cũ) Dear brother (used as adress to a youger brother or friend)