Definition

1. Verb:
   • To initiate / to be the first to propose: To be the person who first suggests, launches, or starts a particular idea, activity, or movement.
   • To instigate (often in a negative context): To be the prime mover or originator of an action, sometimes with a connotation of inciting trouble or controversy.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Ông ấy là người thủ xướng phong trào bảo vệ môi trường trong cộng đồng. (He was the one who initiated the environmental protection movement in the community.)
  • Không ai biết kẻ thủ xướng vụ bạo loạn đó là ai. (No one knows who instigated that riot.)
  • Cô ấy thủ xướng việc thay đổi quy định cũ. (She was the first to propose changing the old regulation.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in formal or written contexts to describe the originator of significant social, political, or cultural initiatives.
• It can carry a neutral or positive tone when referring to constructive movements, but may imply criticism when referring to problematic or destructive actions.

Variants and Related Words

• Khởi xướng (v): To initiate, to launch. This is a very close synonym, often used interchangeably with "thủ xướng."
  • Anh ấy khởi xướng dự án từ năm ngoái. (He launched the project last year.)

Synonyms

• Initiate: To cause a process or action to begin.
• Instigate: To bring about or initiate, often something negative.
• Pioneer: To be among the first to develop or advocate something new.
• Propose: To put forward an idea or plan for consideration.

Related Idioms

• : To step forward to initiate. This phrase emphasizes taking personal responsibility for starting something.
  • Ông chủ tịch đứng ra thủ xướng chiến dịch gây quỹ. (The chairman stepped forward to initiate the fundraising campaign.)