Definition

1. Noun:
   • A moral principle, a rule of conduct to be followed: "mối giềng" refers to a traditional moral guideline or ethical rule that governs behavior and relationships within a family or society. It implies a duty or obligation to uphold certain standards.
   • (Archaic) A moral principle: In older usage, it specifically denotes a foundational moral tenet.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Con cái phải giữ mối giềng với cha mẹ. (Children must observe the proper rules of conduct towards their parents.)
  • Ông ấy luôn dạy con cháu về mối giềng trong gia đình. (He always teaches his descendants about the moral principles within the family.)
  • Xã hội xưa rất coi trọng mối giềng. (Old society placed great importance on moral rules of conduct.)

Advanced Usage

• "giữ mối giềng": to uphold/maintain moral rules and duties.

  • Dù ở đâu, anh ấy vẫn luôn giữ mối giềng. (Wherever he is, he always upholds the proper moral conduct.)

• "mất mối giềng": to lose or break the rules of proper conduct.

  • Hành động đó của nó thật là mất mối giềng. (That action of his/hers truly breaks the rules of proper conduct.)

Variants and Related Words

• Lễ giáo (n): rites and moral teachings; a related concept encompassing rituals and ethical rules.
• Gia phong (n): family discipline/tradition; the moral customs and rules specific to a family.
• Đạo lý (n): morality, ethical principles; a broader term for moral doctrine.

Synonyms

• Nguyên tắc đạo đức: moral principle.
• Quy tắc ứng xử: rule of conduct.
• Phép tắc: rules, regulations (often social or familial).

Notes on Usage

• Tone/Register: The word "mối giềng" is considered formal and is somewhat archaic. It is primarily used in literary contexts, proverbs, or when discussing traditional Confucian family and social ethics.
• Context: It is almost exclusively used in the context of familial and social relationships, emphasizing hierarchy, respect, and obligation.

1. Rule of conduct to be followed