thói đời
Definition
- Noun:
- The ways of the world; worldly habits: Refers to the common, often negative, behaviors, attitudes, or customs that are typical or pervasive in society. It implies a cynical or resigned observation of widespread human conduct, such as ingratitude, fickleness, or materialism.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Thói đời thường là bạc ác, vô tình. (The ways of the world are often cruel and ungrateful.)
- Anh ta đã thấm thía cái thói đời đen bạc. (He has deeply experienced the fickle nature of the world.)
- Đó chính là thói đời: lúc giàu thì nhiều bạn, lúc khó thì vắng tanh. (That is the way of the world: when rich you have many friends, when in difficulty, they all disappear.)
Advanced Usage
- The term is often used in proverbs, philosophical sayings, or laments to express disillusionment with common human behavior. It carries a tone of worldly wisdom, criticism, or sorrow.
Variants and Related Words
- Thói đời đen bạc (n phrase): The ungrateful/fickle ways of the world; emphasizes betrayal and lack of loyalty.
- Thói thường (n): Common custom or habit; a more neutral term for general habits.
Synonyms
- The ways of the world: Common human behaviors in society.
- Worldly customs: Prevalent social habits.
- Human nature (in its negative aspects): The less admirable side of typical human behavior.
Related Idioms and Phrases
- Thói đời là vậy / Thói đời thế thái: "Such is the way of the world." A common phrase used to sigh and accept a disappointing but common social reality.
- Giàu lên thì họ hàng thân thích, khó khăn thì chẳng ai nhìn. Thói đời là vậy. (When you become rich, relatives are close; when you face hardship, no one looks your way. Such is the way of the world.)