Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Polite, respectful, well-mannered: Describes a person, especially a child or young person, who shows proper respect and correct behavior towards elders, superiors, or others, in accordance with social and cultural norms of courtesy.
   • Courteous: Pertaining to speech or actions that demonstrate good manners and deference.

2. Noun (less common):

   • Politeness, courtesy: Refers to the quality or state of being polite and respectful.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Em bé đó rất lễ phép với người lớn. (That child is very polite to adults.)
  • Cô ấy trả lời một cách lễ phép. (She answered in a courteous manner.)
• Noun:
  • Lễ phép là điều quan trọng trong văn hóa Việt Nam. (Politeness is important in Vietnamese culture.)

Advanced Usage

• The term "lễ phép" is deeply rooted in Confucian values and is a fundamental expectation for children's behavior towards parents, teachers, and elders. It implies not just superficial manners but a genuine attitude of respect.

Variants and Related Words

• Lễ độ (n/adj): Politeness, decorum; polite. A close synonym, often used in more formal contexts.
  • Anh ấy cư xử rất có lễ độ. (He behaves with great decorum.)
• Phép tắc (n): Rules of conduct, etiquette.
  • Mọi người phải tuân theo phép tắc xã giao. (Everyone must follow social etiquette.)

Synonyms

• Polite: Having or showing behavior that is respectful and considerate of other people.
• Respectful: Feeling or showing deference and respect.
• Courteous: Polite, respectful, or considerate in manner.
• Well-mannered: Having good manners; polite.

Related Idioms and Expressions

• Giữ lễ phép: To maintain politeness; to be on one's best behavior.
  • Con cái phải biết giữ lễ phép. (Children must know how to maintain politeness.)
• Thưa gửi lễ phép: A phrase describing the act of speaking politely and respectfully, often using the proper honorific terms "thưa" (to address) and "gửi" (to convey).
  • Cậu học trò thưa gửi rất lễ phép với thầy giáo. (The student addressed his teacher very respectfully.)

noun

1. politeness, courtesy