lai

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The Vietnamese word "lai" has several meanings and uses, making it a versatile word in the language. Here’s a breakdown for you:

1. Basic Meaning

• Noun Usage: "Lai" can refer to a type of plant known as "candleberry" or "varmishtree." This usage is less common and might not be frequently encountered in everyday conversation.

• Adjective Usage: "Lai" is often used to describe something that is of mixed blood or cross-bred. For example, a "bò lai" refers to a cross-bred cow, meaning it is a cow that comes from parents of different breeds.

2. Usage Instructions

• When using "lai" as an adjective, it usually comes before the noun it modifies. For example:
  • "bò lai" (cross-bred cow)
  • "người lai" (mixed-race person)

3. Example Sentences

• Noun: Cây "lai" thường được trồng để lấy nến. (The "lai" tree is often grown for candle production.)
• Adjective: Con bò này là bò lai giữa giống Holstein và giống Ayrshire. (This cow is a cross-bred between the Holstein and Ayrshire breeds.)

4. Advanced Usage

• In a more advanced context, "lai" can be used in discussions about genetics or breeding, especially in agriculture or animal husbandry, where the concept of cross-breeding is important.

5. Word Variants

• You may encounter the word "lai" combined with other words to form new meanings, such as:
  • "người lai" (mixed-race person)
  • "rau lai" (a type of vegetable that may be cross-bred)

6. Different Meanings

• Besides the meanings mentioned above, "lai" can also imply a sense of blending or mixing in various contexts, such as language or culture.

7. Synonyms

• Some synonyms for "lai" when used to mean mixed or cross-bred include:
  • "lai giống" (crossbreed)
  • "tạp" (mixed, but more informal)

Summary

"Lai" is a useful word in Vietnamese that describes a mix of bloodlines or breeds, as well as referring to a specific type of plant.

Academic

noun

1. varmishtree; candleberry. hemline; turn up

adj

1. of mixed blood; cross-bred
   • bò lai
     a cross-bred cow