Definition

1. Verb:
   • To begin a new-year writing: The traditional custom of writing or drawing for the first time in the new year, often with auspicious words or poetry, to symbolize a good start for scholarly and literary pursuits.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Ông ấy thường khai bút vào sáng mùng Một Tết. (He usually begins his new-year writing on the morning of the first day of the Lunar New Year.)
  • Nhà văn khai bút bằng một bài thơ về mùa xuân. (The writer began his new-year writing with a poem about spring.)

Advanced Usage

• "Khai bút đầu xuân": To perform the ritual at the beginning of spring (the Lunar New Year).
  • Phong tục khai bút đầu xuân ngày nay vẫn được nhiều người trân trọng. (The custom of beginning the new-year writing at the start of spring is still cherished by many people today.)

Variants and Related Words

• Khai báo (verb): To declare, to report (to authorities). This is a completely different modern word, often confused due to the shared prefix "khai-".
  • Bạn phải khai báo thông tin cá nhân khi nhập cảnh. (You must declare personal information upon entry.)
• Khai trương (verb): To inaugurate, to open (a new business).
  • Cửa hàng mới sẽ khai trương vào tuần tới. (The new store will open next week.)

Synonyms

• Bắt đầu viết: To start writing.
• Viết lời chúc đầu năm: To write new year's blessings.

Notes on Meaning

• Cultural Significance: "Khai bút" is a specific cultural practice, not a general term for starting to write. It carries connotations of tradition, auspiciousness, and a hopeful beginning for intellectual work in the coming year.
• Archaic/Modern Use: While rooted in ancient custom, the term is still understood and sometimes practiced, especially in artistic or literary circles. It is not used for everyday writing tasks.

verb

1. to begin a new-year writing