Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Then, only then, afterwards: An archaic or literary Vietnamese word used to indicate a sequence of events, meaning "after that," "subsequently," or "and only then." It emphasizes that a subsequent action or result logically follows a prior condition or action.

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • Có làm nhiên hậu mới có ăn. (One must work then/only then will one have food to eat.)
  • Phải học nhiên hậu mới có tri thức. (One must study then/only then will one gain knowledge.)

Advanced Usage

• This word is considered cũ (old) or archaic in modern Vietnamese. It is primarily found in classical literature, proverbs, formal writing, or used for stylistic effect to convey a traditional or solemn tone.
• It often appears in structures expressing a cause-and-effect or conditional sequence, typically in the pattern: "[Condition/First Action], [Result/Subsequent Action]."

Variants and Related Words

• Rồi: (Adverb) Then, afterwards. This is the common, modern equivalent.
• Sau đó: (Adverb Phrase) After that, subsequently.
• Tiếp theo: (Adverb Phrase) Next, following.

Synonyms

• Rồi: Then.
• Sau ấy: After that (also somewhat literary).
• Kế đến: Following that.

Notes on Usage

• Nhiên hậu is not used in everyday conversation. Using rồi or sau đó is appropriate for most modern contexts.
• It does not form phrasal verbs or idioms in contemporary usage. Its function is strictly as a sequential adverb.

1. (cũ) Then
   • Có làm nhiên hậu mới có ăn
     To work then to have food to eat