The Vietnamese word "quách" primarily means "sarcophagus" or "outer coffin." It refers to a container that holds a deceased person's body, typically used in burial practices. This term is often associated with the idea of finality, as it signifies the end of life.
Literal Use: "Người ta đặt thi thể vào quách trước khi an táng." (They placed the body into the sarcophagus before the burial.)
Metaphorical Use: "Đốt quách quyển sách dở ấy cho xong." (Burn that bad book and have done with it.)
In literature or philosophical discussions, "quách" can symbolize the boundaries of life and death, representing the permanence of one's final resting place. It may also be used in discussions about legacy, as what remains after a person has passed.
While "quách" primarily refers to a sarcophagus, it can also imply a sense of closure or finality when used in a metaphorical context.
Understanding "quách" is essential for discussing topics related to death, burial customs, and even metaphorical expressions in Vietnamese.