ngay lành
Definition
- Adjective:
- Honest and good-natured: Describes a person who is morally upright, sincere, and kind-hearted in character and behavior.
- Wholesome and proper: Describes an action, intention, or situation that is correct, well-meaning, and without malice.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Anh ấy là một người ngay lành. (He is an honest and good-natured person.)
- Cô ấy luôn có những ý định ngay lành. (She always has wholesome intentions.)
- Cuộc sống ngay lành ở nông thôn. (The wholesome life in the countryside.)
Advanced Usage
- The term is often used to describe inherent character or fundamental nature, implying a sense of purity and integrity that is not easily corrupted.
Variants and Related Words
- Ngay thẳng (adj): upright, honest (emphasizes honesty and directness).
- Lương thiện (adj): virtuous, decent (emphasizes goodness and morality).
- Hiền lành (adj): gentle, meek (emphasizes mildness and kindness).
Synonyms
- Virtuous: Having high moral standards.
- Righteous: Morally right or justifiable.
- Benevolent: Well-meaning and kindly.
Related Idioms
- Ăn ngay ở lành: To live an honest and virtuous life.
- Bà cụ cả đời ăn ngay ở lành. (The old woman lived an honest and virtuous life her whole life.)