thâm nghiêm
Definition
- Adjective:
- Profoundly solemn and austere: Describing an atmosphere, place, or demeanor that is deeply serious, grave, and inspires a sense of awe or reverence due to its solemnity and hidden, inaccessible nature.
- Deeply secretive and rigorous: Characterizing something that is profoundly concealed, guarded, and maintained with strict secrecy or discipline.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Không khí trong ngôi đền cổ thật thâm nghiêm. (The atmosphere in the ancient temple was profoundly solemn.)
- Khu vực quân sự được bảo vệ một cách thâm nghiêm. (The military area is protected in a deeply secretive and rigorous manner.)
- Vẻ mặt thâm nghiêm của vị quan tòa khiến mọi người im lặng. (The profoundly solemn expression of the judge made everyone fall silent.)
Advanced Usage
- Often used in literary or formal contexts to describe places (like temples, palaces, forests) or situations that evoke a feeling of deep solemnity, mystery, and unapproachable seriousness.
Variants and Related Words
- Uy nghiêm (adj): Majestic and solemn; emphasizes dignity and imposing seriousness.
- Trang nghiêm (adj): Solemn, dignified; often used for ceremonies or behavior.
Synonyms
- Solemn and profound: Deeply serious and formal.
- Austere and secretive: Severely strict and concealed.
Related Idioms
- Thâm nghiêm kín cổng cao tường: (Lit: profoundly secretive with locked gates and high walls). Describes a place that is heavily guarded, inaccessible, and shrouded in secrecy.
- Dinh thự ấy thâm nghiêm kín cổng cao tường, ít người ra vào. (That mansion is profoundly secretive with locked gates and high walls, with few people coming and going.)