treo gương
Definition
- Verb phrase:
- To set an example / To be a model: The primary meaning of "treo gương" is to act in such an exemplary way that one's behavior serves as a model or standard for others to follow. It implies demonstrating virtue, integrity, or a specific quality.
- To hold up as an example: To present someone or their actions as a paragon for emulation.
Usage Examples
- Verb phrase:
- Lãnh đạo phải biết treo gương cho nhân viên. (Leaders must know how to set an example for their employees.)
- Ông ấy treo gương chính trực cho cả cộng đồng. (He set an example of integrity for the entire community.)
- Cha mẹ nên treo gương tốt cho con cái. (Parents should set a good example for their children.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase is almost exclusively used in a positive, moral, or ethical context. It is about actively demonstrating commendable behavior with the implicit or explicit expectation that others will learn from it.
- It often collocates with abstract nouns denoting virtues, such as (integrity), (honesty/integrity), (ethics), or (good).
Variants and Related Words
- Nêu gương (v): This is a very close synonym, also meaning "to set an example." The usage is nearly identical to "treo gương."
- Cô giáo nêu gương chăm chỉ. (The teacher sets an example of diligence.)
Synonyms
- To set an example: To behave in a way that shows others how to act.
- To model behavior: To demonstrate a way of acting for others to copy.
- To be a role model: To be a person whose behavior is emulated by others.
Related Idioms
- Treo gương sáng: To set a bright/brilliant example. This emphasizes the exceptional quality of the example being set.
- Vận động viên ấy treo gương sáng về tinh thần thể thao. (That athlete set a brilliant example of sportsmanship.)