Definition

1. Noun:
   • A later incarnation or embodiment: Refers to a person, entity, or thing that is considered the successor, continuation, or reincarnation of a previous one, often carrying on its spirit, characteristics, or role.
   • A successor organization: Specifically denotes an organization that succeeds or replaces a former one.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Công ty mới được xem là hậu thân của tập đoàn cũ đã phá sản. (The new company is considered the successor of the bankrupt old conglomerate.)
  • Anh ta tự nhận mình là hậu thân của một nhà thơ nổi tiếng. (He claims to be the later incarnation of a famous poet.)

Advanced Usage

• "coi/ xem như là hậu thân của": to regard/consider as the successor or reincarnation of.
  • Nhiều người coi ban nhạc này là hậu thân của nhóm nhạc huyền thoại những năm 80. (Many people regard this band as the successor to the legendary band from the 80s.)

Variants and Related Words

• Kế thừa (v): to inherit, to succeed to. (Focuses on the act of succession.)
• Người kế vị (n): successor. (Commonly used for positions, especially in monarchy or leadership.)

Synonyms

• Sự nối nghiệp: continuation of a career or tradition.
• Vật thế thân: a substitute or replacement object (less common for persons/organizations).

Notes on Meaning

• The term often carries a figurative or metaphorical nuance, implying more than just a simple replacement. It suggests a spiritual, ideological, or characteristic continuation from the past to the present entity.
• It is typically used in formal, literary, or analytical contexts rather than in everyday conversation.

1. Posterior personification, eventual impersonation