sứ thần
Definition
- Noun:
- Envoy; Ambassador: An official diplomatic representative, especially of a monarch or emperor, sent to another country. This term carries a historical or formal tone, often referring to diplomacy in a monarchical context.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Sứ thần triều Nguyễn đã đến kinh đô của nhà Thanh. (The Nguyen dynasty envoy arrived at the capital of the Qing dynasty.)
- Vị sứ thần ấy đã trình quốc thư lên nhà vua. (That ambassador presented his credentials to the king.)
Advanced Usage
- The term "sứ thần" is primarily used in historical narratives, literature, or formal contexts to describe pre-modern diplomacy. In contemporary official language, "đại sứ" (ambassador) is the standard term.
Variants and Related Words
- Đại sứ (n): Ambassador. The modern standard term for the head of a diplomatic mission.
- Đại sứ Việt Nam tại Hoa Kỳ. (The Ambassador of Vietnam to the United States.)
- Công sứ (n): Resident Minister. A historical diplomatic rank.
- Sứ giả (n): Messenger, emissary. A broader term that can mean a messenger carrying news or a diplomatic agent.
- Sứ giả hòa bình. (Peace envoy.)
Synonyms
- Ambassador: A diplomat of the highest rank, accredited to a foreign government.
- Envoy: A diplomatic agent or messenger.
- Emissary: A person sent on a special mission.
Related Idioms
- Sứ thần không sợ mất đầu: Literally, "An envoy does not fear losing his head." This proverb highlights the principle of diplomatic immunity and the courage of an envoy who must speak truthfully for his sovereign, even at personal risk. It underscores the sacred duty of a diplomat.