Definition

Noun: * Neighbor(s): A person or people who live near you, typically in the same area, street, or community. The term emphasizes geographical proximity and the resulting social relationship. * Neighboring (as an adjective concept): Pertaining to the state of being adjacent or close by. (Note: This is the adjectival sense derived from the noun, often used in compounds).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Nhà tôi có người láng giềng rất tốt bụng. (My family has a very kind neighbor.)
  • Mối quan hệ láng giềng giữa hai nước rất hòa hảo. (The neighborly relations between the two countries are very amicable.)
  • Tối nay khu phố tổ chức tiệc cho tất cả các gia đình láng giềng. (Tonight the neighborhood is throwing a party for all the neighboring families.)

Advanced Usage

• "Hàng xóm láng giềng": This is a common compound phrase that reinforces the meaning, translating to "neighbors and those living nearby" or simply "the neighbors." It emphasizes the collective community.
  • Tiếng ồn ào làm phiền đến cả hàng xóm láng giềng. (The noise disturbed all the neighbors.)
• The concept is central to many Vietnamese proverbs and sayings, highlighting the cultural importance of neighborly relations over distant familial ties (e.g., ).

Variants and Related Words

• Hàng xóm (noun): A very close synonym for "láng giềng," also meaning "neighbor(s)." The two are often used together.
• Lân cận (adjective/adverb): Adjacent, surrounding, nearby. Used more for areas and locations than for people.
  • các vùng lân cận (the neighboring regions)
• Kế cận (adjective): Immediately adjacent, next-door.
  • căn nhà kế cận (the next-door house)

Synonyms

• Người ở gần: Person who lives nearby.
• Hàng xóm: Neighbor(s).

Related Idioms and Proverbs

• Bán anh em xa, mua láng giềng gần: (Sell distant siblings, buy close neighbors.) This proverb underscores the practical value and importance of good relationships with those who live close by, as they can provide immediate help and support, unlike relatives who live far away.
• Tắt lửa tối đèn có nhau: (To be together when the fire goes out and when it gets dark.) An idiom describing the reciprocal help and reliance between close neighbors in times of need.

noun

1. neighbouring