ngã ba
Definition
Noun:
- A three-way intersection / a T-junction: A point where one road splits into three separate paths or where two roads meet to form three possible directions. It is the most common type of road intersection.
- A fork in the road: A point where a single road divides into two separate branches, creating a choice of direction.
Noun (figurative):
- A turning point / a crossroads: A critical juncture where a significant choice must be made, often determining a future path, such as in life, history, or a project.
Usage Examples
Noun (literal):
- Xe dừng lại ở ngã ba. (The vehicle stopped at the three-way intersection.)
- Rẽ phải tại ngã ba phía trước. (Turn right at the fork in the road ahead.)
Noun (figurative):
- Đất nước đứng trước một ngã ba lịch sử. (The country stands at a historical crossroads.)
Advanced Usage
- "ngã ba đường": This phrase explicitly means "road junction" or "crossroads," emphasizing the literal meaning.
- Cửa hàng nằm ngay ngã ba đường. (The shop is located right at the crossroads.)
Variants and Related Words
Ngã tư (n): A four-way intersection or crossroads.
- Vòng xoay nằm ở ngã tư. (The roundabout is at the crossroads.)
Ngã năm, ngã bảy (n): A five-way or seven-way intersection, respectively (less common).
Synonyms
- Intersection: A point where two or more roads meet.
- Junction: A place where roads or railway lines meet.
- Crossroads: A place where two roads cross (often implying a four-way intersection, but can be used figuratively like "ngã ba").
- Fork: A point where a road, river, or path splits into two parts.
Related Idioms
- Đứng trước ngã ba đường: To stand at a crossroads (figurative).
- Cô ấy đang đứng trước ngã ba đường của sự nghiệp. (She is standing at a crossroads in her career.)