phèn

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The Vietnamese word "phèn" primarily refers to "alum," which is a type of chemical compound often used in various applications, such as in water purification, as a food additive, and in cosmetics.

Basic Definition:

• Phèn (noun): Alum, a chemical compound used mainly for its properties in water purification and as a food additive.

Usage Instructions:

1. Context: You can use "phèn" when discussing topics related to chemistry, cooking, or health and beauty products.
2. Form: It can be used as a standalone noun or in phrases.

Example Sentence:

• "Người ta thường dùng phèn để làm sạch nước." (People often use alum to purify water.)

Advanced Usage:

• In more advanced contexts, "phèn" can refer to various types of alum, such as potassium alum (KAl(SO₄)₂·12H₂O) or ammonium alum, which are used in different industries.

Word Variants:

• Phèn nhôm: Aluminum sulfate, a specific type of alum commonly used in water treatment.
• Phèn chua: A specific type of alum known as potash alum, often used in cooking and food preservation.

Different Meanings:

• In some contexts, "phèn" can also refer to a bitter taste or an unpleasant quality, especially when describing food that has been improperly preserved or treated with alum.

Synonyms:

• Alum: While there are no direct synonyms for "phèn" in Vietnamese, it can be referred to by its specific types like "phèn nhôm" or "phèn chua."

Cultural Note:

• In Vietnamese cooking, "phèn" is sometimes used for pickling vegetables, as it helps maintain their crispness and color.

Academic

noun

1. alum