môn quan
Definition
- Noun:
- Gatekeeper / Doorkeeper: A person whose duty is to guard or watch over a gate or entrance, historically often to a government office, mansion, or walled compound.
- Porter / Concierge: A person stationed at an entrance to control access, screen visitors, or provide information.
Usage Examples
- (The gatekeeper guarded the city gate very strictly.)
- (To enter the mansion, one must have the doorkeeper's permission.)
Advanced Usage
- Historically, the role of a môn quan was important in feudal systems, controlling access to officials and maintaining security at key points.
Variants and Related Words
- Lính canh cổng (n): Gate guard. (A more modern or general term for a guard posted at a gate.)
- Người gác cổng (n): Gate watcher / gatekeeper. (A descriptive phrase with a similar meaning.)
Synonyms
- Gatekeeper: A person who guards or controls access through a gate.
- Doorkeeper: A person who is in charge of a door and allows people to enter.
- Porter: A person employed to carry luggage and often to control a building's entrance.
Related Idioms