ngón dao

Một người thư pháp cầm ngón dao để viết chữ trên giấy.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A jade-handled knife: A ceremonial or decorative knife with a handle made of jade. This is a classical, literary term.
   • A sharp, eloquent pen (figurative): A metaphor for writing or criticism that is incisive, powerful, and elegant, likening the writer's skill to a precious, sharp blade.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Nhà vua cầm ngón dao trong nghi lễ. (The king held the jade-handled knife in the ceremony.)
  • Bài xã luận của ông ấy được coi là một ngón dao sắc bén. (His editorial is considered a sharp pen.)

Advanced Usage

• This term is primarily found in classical Vietnamese literature, poetry, or formal writing. In modern, everyday language, it is very rarely used.

Word Origin and Notes

• The term is a compound of "ngọc" (jade) and "dao" (knife). Its figurative meaning derives from the traditional association of jade with virtue and value, and the knife with sharpness and precision, thus describing a noble and effective writing style.

Synonyms

• Lời lẽ sắc bén: Sharp words.
• Ngòi bút sắc sảo: A sharp/astute pen.