lợi hại
Definition
- Adjective:
- Formidable; highly effective: Describing a person, thing, or method that is exceptionally capable, powerful, or potent, often inspiring awe or fear due to its effectiveness.
- Sharp; keen: Describing a critical faculty, such as a keen eye or sharp tongue, that is incisive and potent in its effect.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Đó là một vũ khí lợi hại. (That is a formidable weapon.)
- Cô ấy có đôi mắt nhìn người rất lợi hại. (She has a very keen eye for judging people.)
- Anh ta là một tay đua lợi hại. (He is a formidable racer.)
Advanced Usage
- The term often implies a combination of beneficial power and potential danger or threat, depending on the context and perspective (e.g., formidable to an opponent, highly effective for the user).
Variants and Related Words
- Lợi (n/adj): Benefit, advantage; beneficial.
- Hại (n/adj): Harm, damage; harmful.
- Lợi hại song hành (phrase): A double-edged sword; something with concurrent advantages and disadvantages.
Synonyms
- Formidable: Inspiring fear or respect through being impressively powerful or capable.
- Potent: Having great power, influence, or effect.
- Keen: (Of a sense) highly developed; sharp.
- Deadly: Extremely effective or dangerous.
Related Idioms
- Biết người biết ta, trăm trận trăm thắng: (Know the enemy and know yourself, and you can fight a hundred battles without disaster.) This strategic concept relates to understanding the lợi hại (strengths and weaknesses) of all parties.