lễ hỏi
Definition
- Noun:
- Betrothal ceremony: A traditional Vietnamese pre-wedding ritual where the groom's family formally visits the bride's family to propose marriage and present engagement gifts. It signifies the official agreement to the marriage between the two families.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Gia đình nhà trai đã chuẩn bị lễ vật cho lễ hỏi. (The groom's family prepared gifts for the betrothal ceremony.)
- Lễ hỏi thường được tổ chức tại nhà gái. (The betrothal ceremony is usually held at the bride's house.)
- Sau lễ hỏi, đôi trẻ được xem là đã đính hôn. (After the betrothal ceremony, the couple is considered engaged.)
Advanced Usage
- The ceremony is part of a sequence of traditional Vietnamese wedding steps, which may include (initial meeting) and (wedding ceremony).
- It is a formal event involving specific rituals, such as presenting betrothal gifts () in red boxes () and formal speeches by family representatives.
Variants and Related Words
Đính hôn (v/n): to engage / engagement. This is the modern or general term for engagement, while lễ hỏi refers specifically to the ceremonial event.
- Họ đã làm lễ đính hôn tuần trước. (They had their engagement ceremony last week.)
Lễ cưới (n): wedding ceremony.
- Lễ cưới sẽ được tổ chức vào tháng tới. (The wedding ceremony will be held next month.)
Synonyms
- Betrothal ceremony: The formal act of becoming engaged.
- Engagement ceremony: A ceremony to mark the agreement to marry.
Related Cultural Notes
- Lễ hỏi is a key event to demonstrate respect, sincerity, and the union of two families. The gifts often include tea, betel nuts, wine, cakes, and fruit, symbolizing prosperity and good wishes.