Definition

Noun: * Set phrase, fixed expression: A short, fixed group of words that functions as a single unit of meaning. Its meaning is often not the literal sum of its parts and must be learned as a whole. It is a type of idiomatic expression, but typically shorter and more formulaic than a full proverb or saying.

Usage

• Quán ngữ is a linguistic term used to describe a common, conventionalized word combination in Vietnamese. It is used to express a specific idea concisely and naturally, much like "by the way" or "once in a blue moon" in English.
• It functions as a single grammatical component within a sentence (e.g., an adverbial phrase, a conjunction).
• Example: The phrase "" (generally speaking, in general) is a quán ngữ. You don't interpret it word-by-word ("speak general is"); you learn and use it as a fixed unit to introduce a general statement.

Examples

• (He is extremely cautious [lit: one loss, ten suspicions] so he is very careful.)
• (In short, we need to cooperate.)
• (She works to the best of her ability [lit: exhaust her own strength].)

Advanced Usage

• Quán ngữ can be categorized based on function:
  • Quán ngữ liên kết (Conjunctive set phrases): Used to connect ideas (e.g., mặt khác - on the other hand, ngoài ra - besides).
  • Quán ngữ tình thái (Modal set phrases): Express the speaker's attitude (e.g., nói thật là - to tell the truth, có lẽ - perhaps).
  • Quán ngữ so sánh (Comparative set phrases): Used for comparisons (e.g., đen như mực - as black as ink).

Variants and Related Words

• Thành ngữ (Idiom): A type of fixed expression, often figurative and longer than a quán ngữ, usually conveying advice or a cultural concept (e.g., - to be new/wet behind the ears).
• Tục ngữ (Proverb): A traditional, complete saying that expresses a piece of wisdom or truth (e.g., - When eating fruit, remember the planter).
• Cụm từ cố định (Fixed phrase): A broader term encompassing all types of non-compositional word combinations, including quán ngữ and thành ngữ.

Synonyms

• Cụm từ cố định (Fixed phrase)
• Cụm từ thành ngữ (Idiomatic phrase)

Related Phrases

• Học thuộc lòng các quán ngữ: To memorize set phrases.
• Sử dụng quán ngữ một cách thành thạo: To use set phrases fluently.

Related Idioms

• Nói có quán ngữ: To speak using set phrases (implies fluent, natural speech).
• While quán ngữ themselves are idiomatic, they are the building blocks within larger, more proverbial idioms.

1. (ngôn ngữ) Locution