lái

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The Vietnamese word "lái" has both noun and verb forms, and it is commonly used in everyday language, especially in the context of driving and steering.

Basic Meaning:

1. As a noun: "lái" can refer to a "helm," "rudder," or "steering-wheel." This means it is the part of a vehicle that is used to control its direction.
2. As a verb: "lái" means "to steer," "to drive," or "to pilot." It describes the action of controlling a vehicle.

Usage Instructions:

• When you use "lái" as a verb, it is often combined with a noun that indicates the type of vehicle. For example:
  • "lái ô tô" means "to drive a car."
  • "lái xe máy" means "to ride a motorbike."

Examples:

1. Noun Usage:

   • "Tay lái của xe hơi rất quan trọng." (The steering wheel of the car is very important.)

2. Verb Usage:

   • "Tôi biết lái ô tô." (I know how to drive a car.)
   • "Anh ấy lái xe máy rất giỏi." (He rides a motorbike very well.)

Advanced Usage:

• You can use "lái" in various contexts, like discussing different types of vehicles or talking about driving skills. For example:
  • "Cô ấy đang học lái xe tải." (She is learning to drive a truck.)

Word Variants:

• "Người lái" refers to "the driver" (literally, "the person who steers").
• "Lái xe" is another common phrase that means "to drive" or "to operate a vehicle."

Different Meanings:

• "Lái" primarily relates to driving or steering, but in some contexts, it can be used metaphorically to mean guiding or directing something, like a project or team.

Academic

noun

1. helm; rudder; steering-wheel

verb

1. to steer; to drive; to pilot
   • lái ô tô
     to drive a car