Definition

1. Noun:
   • Paper-pasted window: A traditional window, typically made of wood, with lattice bars (song cửa) and covered with paper instead of glass. This type of window was common in ancient Vietnamese architecture, allowing diffused light to enter while providing privacy and protection from wind.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Trong ngôi nhà cổ, ánh sáng dịu đi qua song hồ. (In the ancient house, soft light filtered through the paper-pasted window.)
  • Song hồ vừa cho ánh sáng lọt vào, vừa che chắn gió lạnh. (The paper-pasted window both let light in and shielded against the cold wind.)

Advanced Usage

• This term is primarily used in literary, historical, or descriptive contexts to evoke imagery of traditional or ancient Vietnamese settings. It is not commonly used in modern everyday language to describe contemporary windows.

Variants and Related Words

• Cửa sổ: (Noun) Window. The general, modern term for any window.
• Song cửa: (Noun) Window lattice or grille. Refers specifically to the wooden bars of a traditional window, which are part of a .
• Giấy dó: (Noun) Traditional Vietnamese paper made from the bark of the dó tree, often used for pasting on windows, doors, or for folk paintings.

Synonyms

• Cửa sổ giấy: (Noun) Paper window. A more descriptive, modern phrasing with the same meaning.
• Cửa sổ phết giấy: (Noun) Paper-spread window. As found in historical dictionary definitions.

Notes on Meaning

• The term song hồ is archaic (cổ) and poetic. Its usage today is almost exclusively found in classical poetry (like the referenced line from Nguyễn Du's : "Song hồ nửa khép cánh mây"), historical writings, or in descriptions of heritage architecture. It carries a strong cultural and nostalgic connotation.

1. Paper-pasted window