tiên

Friendly

The Vietnamese word "tiên" has a couple of meanings and usages that are important to know.

Basic Meaning:

1. Noun - Fairy:

   • In Vietnamese folklore, "tiên" refers to a fairy or a celestial being. These are often depicted as beautiful, magical creatures that have the ability to fly and possess supernatural powers. They are common figures in Vietnamese stories and legends.

2. Adjective/Adverb - First:

   • "Tiên" can also mean "first" or "prior" when used in certain contexts. It signifies something that comes before others in order or time.

Advanced Usage:

• In literature and poetry, "tiên" can be used metaphorically to describe someone who is kind, gentle, or possesses an ethereal quality, similar to the characteristics of a fairy.

Word Variants:

• Tiên nữ: Refers specifically to a female fairy.
• Tiên phong: Means "pioneer" or "forerunner," used to describe someone who leads the way in a particular field or activity.

Different Meanings:

• In a more abstract sense, "tiên" can refer to something that is ahead of its time or innovative.

Synonyms:

• For "fairy": huyền bí (mysterious being), tiên thần (angel).
• For "first": đầu tiên (the first), tiên khởi (initial).

Usage Instructions:

• When using "tiên" in conversation, consider whether you are referring to a fairy-like figure or discussing something that is first in a sequence. Context will help clarify the intended meaning.

Summary:

The word "tiên" is versatile in Vietnamese, used both to describe enchanting beings from folklore and to denote superiority in order or priority.

Academic

noun

1. fairy

adj, adv

1. first