quý giả

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Valuable / Precious: Describes something that has high worth, either in material terms (like money) or in abstract, sentimental terms (like love, time). It emphasizes rarity, importance, or deep significance.
    • Esteemed / Honorable: Used as a respectful and formal term of address, often in classical or literary contexts, to refer to a revered or honorable person. It is similar to "esteemed one" or "honorable sir/madam."
Usage Examples
  • Adjective (Valuable):
    • Tình bạn là thứ quý giá nhất. (Friendship is the most precious thing.)
    • Cô ấy sở hữu một viên ngọc quý giá. (She owns a valuable gemstone.)
  • Adjective (Esteemed - as a term of address):
    • Kính thưa quý giả. (Respected honorable guests / Esteemed assembly.)
Advanced Usage
  • The term "quý giả" is considered formal and somewhat literary. In modern spoken Vietnamese, "quý giá" is far more common for the meaning "valuable/precious."
  • When used as a term of address ("quý giả"), it is often found in formal speeches, classical texts, or very respectful invitations, addressing a group of distinguished people.
Variants and Related Words
  • Quý giá (adj): Valuable, precious. The standard modern variant.
    • Thời gian rất quý giá. (Time is very precious.)
  • Trân quý (adj/verb): To treasure, to hold dear; treasured.
    • Anh ấy trân quý từng kỷ niệm. (He treasures every memory.)
Synonyms
  • Valuable: Having great material worth.
  • Precious: Of great value; not to be wasted or treated carelessly.
  • Esteemed: Held in high respect.
  • Honorable: Worthy of honor and respect.
Related Idioms
  • Của quý giá: A valuable possession.
    • Chiếc nhẫn này là một của quý giá của gia đình. (This ring is a valuable family heirloom.)
  • Vàng bạc quý giá: Precious gold and silver (emphasizing great material value).
    • Không phải vàng bạc quý giá nào cũng mua được hạnh phúc. (Not all precious gold and silver can buy happiness.)