Definition

1. Verb:

   • To act as a buffer / to cushion: The primary meaning of "hoãn xung" is to serve as a neutral zone or intermediary that absorbs and reduces the impact of a conflict or clash between two opposing forces, thereby preventing direct confrontation.
   • To deaden a shock (technical): In mechanics and engineering, "hoãn xung" refers to the function of a device or material that absorbs and dissipates kinetic energy, softening the effect of a sudden impact or vibration.

2. Noun (compound form):

   • Buffer zone: A physical or political area established between two opposing forces to prevent direct conflict and create a space for de-escalation.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Vùng đất này có nhiệm vụ hoãn xung giữa hai quốc gia thù địch. (This land serves to buffer the two hostile nations.)
  • Lò xo trong hệ thống treo giúp hoãn xung khi xe di chuyển trên đường gồ ghề. (The spring in the suspension system helps to deaden the shock when the car moves on a rough road.)
• Noun:
  • Hai bên đã đồng ý thiết lập một khu hoãn xung. (The two sides agreed to establish a buffer zone.)

Advanced Usage

• Political/Social Context: The term is often used in geopolitics and conflict resolution to describe a state or entity that reduces tensions between larger powers.
  • Trong Chiến tranh Lạnh, một số quốc gia đóng vai trò nước hoãn xung. (During the Cold War, some countries played the role of buffer states.)

Variants and Related Words

• Vùng đệm / Khu đệm (n): Buffer zone. A more common, general synonym for "khu hoãn xung".
  • Khu rừng là vùng đệm tự nhiên giữa khu dân cư và khu bảo tồn. (The forest is a natural buffer zone between the residential area and the nature reserve.)
• Giảm chấn (v): To dampen, to shock-absorb (specifically technical).
  • Bộ phận giảm chấn trên xe máy. (The shock absorber on the motorcycle.)

Synonyms

• To buffer: To lessen the impact of conflict.
• To cushion: To soften the effect of a force or impact.
• To mitigate (conflict): To make a conflict less severe.

Related Concepts

• Nước hoãn xung (n): Buffer state. A small country situated between rival powers, intended to reduce the likelihood of direct conflict between them, though often falling under their influence.
  • Lịch sử ghi nhận nhiều nước hoãn xung bị các cường quốc chi phối. (History records many buffer states being controlled by major powers.)

1. (cơ học; cơ khi') Deaden a shock, act as a buffer