quý hồ
Definition
- Conjunction:
- As long as / Provided that / So long as: Used to introduce the sole condition that is considered necessary or sufficient for something to be acceptable or to happen. It emphasizes that the specific nature of other details is unimportant if this one condition is met.
- The important thing is: Used to highlight the single crucial factor, often dismissing other considerations.
Usage Examples
- Conjunction:
- Công việc này, quý hồ hoàn thành đúng hạn, phương pháp không quan trọng. (For this task, as long as it's completed on time, the method is not important.)
- Quà tặng quý hồ tấm lòng, không quý hồ giá trị. (A gift is valued for the sentiment, not for its monetary value.)
- Anh có thể dùng bất kỳ công cụ nào, quý hồ là nó hiệu quả. (You can use any tool, provided that it is effective.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase is often used in a parallel or contrasting structure (e.g., meaning "what matters is A, not B").
- It carries a slightly literary or proverbial tone, frequently found in sayings, advice, and formal instructions.
Variants and Related Words
- Miễn là (conj): A more common and colloquial synonym for "as long as."
- Miễn là anh vui. (As long as you are happy.)
- Chỉ cần (conj): Another common synonym meaning "only need to" or "provided that."
- Chỉ cần cố gắng hết sức. (Just try your best.)
Synonyms
- As long as: On the condition that.
- Provided that: If; on the condition that.
- So long as: Provided that.
- The main thing is: Used to state the most important point.
Related Idioms and Phrases
- Quý hồ tinh bất quý hồ đa: Quality over quantity. (Lit: Value lies in refinement, not in multitude.)
- Khi tuyển nhân viên, công ty theo nguyên tắc 'quý hồ tinh bất quý hồ đa'. (When hiring, the company follows the principle of 'quality over quantity'.)