Definition

Noun: 1. Three generations: Specifically refers to three consecutive generations in a family lineage, typically the grandfather, father, and son. This term is often used to discuss heritage, legacy, or conflicts spanning these generations. 2. (Figurative, colloquial) Very old, ancient: Used to describe something (like a feud, grudge, or object) that has existed for a very long time, metaphorically extending the idea of something passing through multiple "generations."

Usage Examples

• Noun (Literal):

  • Gia đình anh ấy đã sống ở ngôi nhà này qua tam đại. (His family has lived in this house for three generations.)
  • Truyền thống nghề thủ công đó được giữ gìn trong tam đại. (That handicraft tradition has been preserved for three generations.)

• Noun (Figurative):

  • Hai gia tộc đó có mối thù tam đại. (Those two clans have an age-old feud.)
  • Đó là chiếc xe tam đại, không còn chạy được nữa. (That is an ancient car; it doesn't run anymore.)

Advanced Usage

• "Lôi đến tam đại ra mà chửi": An idiom meaning "to curse someone by dragging out their ancestors for three generations." It describes severe, extensive verbal abuse that insults not just the individual but their entire recent lineage.
  • Trong cơn tức giận, ông ta đã lôi đến tam đại ra mà chửi. (In his rage, he cursed the man, dragging out his ancestors for three generations.)

Variants and Related Words

• Tam đại đồng đường (idiom/phrase): Literally "three generations under one roof." Describes a family where grandparents, parents, and children all live together in the same household, often implying traditional family values.
  • Gia đình tam đại đồng đường ngày càng hiếm ở thành phố. (Three-generation households are increasingly rare in the city.)

Synonyms

• Ba đời (n): Three generations. (A more common, direct synonym).
• Lâu đời (adj): Long-standing, age-old. (For the figurative meaning).
• Cổ xưa (adj): Ancient, archaic. (For the figurative meaning, stronger connotation).

Related Idioms

• Mối thù tam đại: An age-old feud / a feud spanning three generations.
  • Câu chuyện kể về mối thù tam đại giữa hai gia tộc. (The story tells of an age-old feud between two clans.)

noun

1. three generations