Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Strictly upright, strictly honest: Describes a person who is both serious, principled, and morally correct in their conduct and character. It implies a combination of stern integrity and unwavering correctness.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Ông ấy là một người nghiêm chính, không bao giờ chấp nhận hành vi gian lận. (He is a strictly upright person who never accepts fraudulent behavior.)
  • Thái độ nghiêm chính của vị quan tòa khiến mọi người đều nể phục. (The judge's strict and honest demeanor earned everyone's respect.)

Advanced Usage

• This word is considered formal and somewhat literary in modern Vietnamese. It is used less frequently in everyday conversation and more in written descriptions of character, ethics, or official conduct.
• It often describes individuals in positions of authority or respect (e.g., judges, leaders, elders) who embody rigorous moral standards.

Variants and Related Words

• Nghiêm trang (adj): Solemn, dignified, serious (often in demeanor or setting). Focuses more on solemnity and formality than on moral integrity.
• Ngay chính (adj): Upright, righteous. A more common synonym focusing on honesty and moral correctness.
• Chính trực (adj): Righteous, upright. Emphasizes fairness and moral integrity.

Synonyms

• Ngay thẳng: Straightforward, honest.
• Chính trực: Righteous, upright.
• Đoan chính: Proper, decent (often regarding demeanor and appearance).

Notes on Meaning

• The term nghiêm chính combines two concepts:
  • Nghiêm: Strict, serious, severe.
  • Chính: Correct, upright, proper.
• Its core meaning revolves around an integrity that is both stern and morally unassailable. The provided reference "strict upright, strict honest" accurately captures this dual emphasis on severity and honesty.

1. (ít dùng) Strict upright, strict honest