Definition

Noun: 1. Master, teacher (archaic): A respectful term used by a student or disciple to address or refer to their own teacher, master, or instructor, especially in traditional contexts such as martial arts, crafts, or classical studies. It implies a deep level of respect and a formal teacher-student relationship.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Anh ấy kính trọng sư phụ của mình. (He respects his master.)
  • Sư phụ dạy tôi võ thuật. (The master taught me martial arts.)
  • Theo truyền thống, học trò phải vâng lời sư phụ. (Traditionally, disciples must obey their master.)

Advanced Usage

• The term "sư phụ" is considered somewhat archaic or classical in modern Vietnamese. It evokes a traditional, hierarchical, and deeply respectful master-disciple bond, often found in historical contexts, folklore, or traditional arts.
• It is less commonly used for general "teachers" in contemporary secular education; terms like "thầy giáo" (male teacher) or "cô giáo" (female teacher) are standard.
• Its use in modern times often appears in period dramas, stories about martial arts, or when deliberately invoking a traditional or respectful tone.

Variants and Related Words

• Sư (n): A shorter, more general term for a master, monk, or teacher, often used in compounds (e.g., - martial arts master).
• Phụ (n): Meaning "father," here used metaphorically to indicate a paternal, guiding role.
• Thầy (n): A common and contemporary term for a (male) teacher or master. "Thầy" is the modern, widely used equivalent.
• Giáo sư (n): Professor (used in academic settings).

Synonyms

• Thầy: Teacher, master (common, modern).
• Người thầy: The teacher (emphatic).
• Bậc thầy: Master, expert (emphasizing high skill level).

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning is a respected master or teacher. The reference to "(cũ)" or "(arch.)" in dictionaries highlights its status as an older, classical term.
• It does not mean "boss," "supervisor," or "coach." Those are different words (e.g., , ).
• The term inherently carries connotations of respect, tradition, and authority.

noun

1. (cũ) master