thỉnh mệnh
Definition
- Verb (archaic):
- To request orders or instructions: To formally ask a superior, authority, or one's parents for commands, directives, or guidance on how to proceed.
Usage Examples
- Verb:
- Trước khi hành động, người con trai phải thỉnh mệnh song thân. (Before acting, the son had to request instructions from both his parents.)
- Các tướng lĩnh về kinh đô để thỉnh mệnh nhà vua. (The generals returned to the capital to request orders from the king.)
Advanced Usage
- This term is primarily used in historical, literary, or formal contexts to depict traditional hierarchical relationships, such as between children and parents, subordinates and superiors, or officials and the monarch.
Variants and Related Words
- Thỉnh thị (v): to consult, to ask for an opinion (often in a formal or respectful manner).
- Xin chỉ thị (v): to request instructions (a modern equivalent).
Synonyms
- Request orders: To ask for authoritative commands.
- Seek instructions: To ask for guidance or directives.
- Consult: To seek advice or approval from an authority.
Related Idioms
- Thỉnh mệnh tiên vương: To request the mandate or follow the orders of a previous king; often used to justify an action by citing the authority of a predecessor.