khắc

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The Vietnamese word "khắc" has a couple of meanings and uses, which can be helpful for you to understand as a new learner.

Meanings and Usage

1. As a Verb (to carve; to engrave):

   • "Khắc" means to carve or engrave something into a surface. This can refer to making designs or text on materials like wood, stone, or metal.
   • Example: "Tôi khắc tên của tôi lên gỗ." (I carve my name into the wood.)

2. As a Noun (a quarter of an hour):

   • "Khắc" can also refer to a period of 15 minutes. This usage is more formal and is often seen in time-related contexts.
   • Example: "Chúng ta sẽ gặp nhau sau một khắc." (We will meet each other after a quarter of an hour.)

Advanced Usage

In literature or poetry, "khắc" can be used metaphorically to suggest something deep or lasting, like a memory or feeling that is engraved in one’s heart or mind.

Word Variants

• Khắc phục: This means to remedy or overcome a problem.
• Khắc kỷ: This means to be stoic or to practice self-discipline.

Different Meanings

Depending on the context, "khắc" can also imply a sense of urgency or necessity when used in certain phrases, especially in a metaphorical sense (like "to carve out time").

Synonyms

• For the verb meaning "to carve" or "to engrave":

  • Chạm: to carve, often referring to more detailed and decorative carving.
  • Khắc họa: to depict or illustrate (often used in artistic contexts).

• For the noun meaning "a quarter of an hour":

  • 15 phút: which literally means "15 minutes."

Summary

"Khắc" is a versatile word in Vietnamese with both physical (to carve/engrave) and temporal (a quarter of an hour) meanings.

Academic

verb

1. to carve; to engrave

noun

1. quarter of an hour