Definition

1. Noun:

   • A man; a male: Refers specifically to an adult male, often emphasizing the qualities or social role associated with being a man.
   • A son; a boy: Can refer to a male child, though it is less common and often carries a more formal or literary tone than "con trai."

2. Noun (figurative/literary):

   • Manhood; masculine spirit: Encapsulates the traditional ideals, responsibilities, and virtues expected of a man, such as strength, honor, and duty.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Chí nam nhi là phải lập thân, lập nghiệp. (The aspiration of a man is to establish himself and build a career.)
  • Anh ấy là một nam nhi đích thực. (He is a true man.)
• Noun (figurative):
  • Gánh nặng nam nhi đè lên vai anh. (The burden of manhood weighs on his shoulders.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in formal, literary, or proverbial contexts to invoke traditional masculine ideals. It is less common in casual, everyday speech where "đàn ông" (man) or "con trai" (boy/son) would be used.
• It frequently appears in classical literature and idioms related to duty, ambition, and character.

Variants and Related Words

• Trượng phu (n): A magnanimous man; a gentleman. A more elevated, classical synonym emphasizing nobility and virtue.
  • Anh ta quả là một trang trượng phu. (He is truly a noble gentleman.)

Synonyms

• Đàn ông: Man (adult male).
• Con trai: Boy; son.
• Tráng sĩ: Warrior; strong man (literary).

Related Idioms

• Chí nam nhi: The will/aspiration of a man. Refers to the lofty ambitions or sense of purpose expected of a man.
  • Chí nam nhi là phải giúp nước, giúp đời. (A man's will is to serve his country and his times.)
• Nợ nam nhi / Nợ công danh: The debt of a man (i.e., the debt to achieve fame and success for one's country or family). A classical concept denoting a man's obligatory pursuit of merit and recognition.
  • Vẫn mang trong mình món nợ nam nhi. (He still carries within him the debt of a man.)

1. Son, man