râu hùm, hàm én, mày ngài

Definition

1. Noun phrase (idiomatic):
   • The beard of a tiger, the jaw of a swallow, the eyebrows of a silkworm moth: A classical Vietnamese idiomatic phrase used to describe the idealized, heroic, and majestic facial features of a legendary hero or great man. It depicts a fierce beard like a tiger's, a broad, strong jaw like a swallow's, and long, curved, handsome eyebrows like a silkworm moth's antennae.

Usage Examples

• Noun phrase:
  • Trong truyện cổ, người anh hùng thường có râu hùm, hàm én, mày ngài. (In folktales, the hero often has the beard of a tiger, the jaw of a swallow, the eyebrows of a silkworm moth.)
  • Vị tướng được miêu tả với ngoại hình râu hùm, hàm én, mày ngài, toát lên vẻ uy nghi. (The general was described with the appearance of the beard of a tiger, the jaw of a swallow, the eyebrows of a silkworm moth, exuding majesty.)

Advanced Usage

• This phrase is almost exclusively used in literary, historical, or folkloric contexts to evoke a traditional, archetypal image of masculine heroism and imposing presence. It is not used in modern, everyday descriptions.

Cultural and Historical Context

• The phrase originates from classical Vietnamese literature and Sino-Vietnamese physiognomy, which associated specific animal features with noble character and destiny. The tiger represents power and ferocity, the swallow represents breadth and strength (from its wide gape), and the silkworm moth's antennae represent refinement and handsomeness.

Synonyms

• Heroic countenance: A face or appearance befitting a hero.
• Majestic features: Facial features that convey dignity and power.

Related Idioms and Concepts

• Mặt mũi phi thường: An extraordinary face (a less specific, modern way to describe someone with remarkable looks).
• Tướng mạo đường đường: A dignified and impressive appearance.