thừa mệnh
Definition
- Verb (archaic):
- To act upon an order / to obey a command: To carry out an action based on a direct order or instruction from a superior authority.
- To act by the authority of / on behalf of: To perform a duty or task as a representative, empowered by the command of someone in a higher position.
Usage Examples
- Verb:
- Sứ thần thừa mệnh nhà vua đi sứ nước ngoài. (The envoy, acting upon the king's order, went on a diplomatic mission abroad.)
- Thừa mệnh song thân, chàng trai đến hỏi cưới cô gái. (By the authority of his parents, the young man came to propose to the girl.)
Advanced Usage
- This term is primarily used in historical, literary, or formal contexts. It is considered archaic in modern, everyday Vietnamese and is often found in writings about feudal society, classical literature, or in formal declarations to convey a sense of solemn duty derived from authority.
Variants and Related Words
- Thừa lệnh (v): A more common and modern synonym meaning "to act on an order/instruction." While similar, "thừa mệnh" often implies a weightier, more formal command (e.g., from a monarch, parent, or heaven) compared to "thừa lệnh."
- Anh ta thừa lệnh giám đốc để ký hợp đồng. (He signed the contract on the director's orders.)
Synonyms
- To obey an order: To act in accordance with a command.
- To act on behalf of: To perform a task as someone's authorized agent.
- To carry out a mandate: To execute a formal commission or authorization.
Related Idioms
- Phụng mệnh: A closely related, equally formal term meaning "to respectfully receive and carry out a command." It emphasizes the reverence towards the order-giver.
- Tướng quân phụng mệnh triều đình ra trận. (The general, respectfully receiving the court's command, went to battle.)