trả lễ
Definition
- Verb:
- To reciprocate a gift or favor with a return gift: The primary meaning of "trả lễ" is to express gratitude or to return a social obligation by presenting a gift in response to one received, often in the context of traditional customs or ceremonies.
- To repay a ceremonial courtesy: It refers to the act of formally acknowledging a kindness, honor, or gift received during a ritual, wedding, or important event by giving a reciprocal present.
Usage Examples
- Verb:
- Nhà trai mang lễ vật sang, nhà gái sẽ trả lễ lại bằng một mâm quả. (The groom's family brought gifts; the bride's family will reciprocate with a return gift with a tray of fruits.)
- Sau khi nhận được sự giúp đỡ lớn, ông ấy muốn trả lễ một cách trang trọng. (After receiving great help, he wanted to formally repay the kindness.)
Advanced Usage
- The concept is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, emphasizing balance, gratitude, and the maintenance of social harmony. The value of the return gift is often carefully considered to be appropriately equivalent to the original.
Variants and Related Words
- Đáp lễ (v): a more formal synonym meaning to return a courtesy or salute.
- Vị chủ tịch đáp lễ bằng một bài phát biểu cảm ơn. (The chairman returned the courtesy with a thank-you speech.)
Synonyms
- Reciprocate: to respond to a gesture or gift by making a corresponding one.
- Repay (a kindness/gift): to return a favor or present.
- Requite: to make appropriate return for (often used in formal/literary contexts).
Related Idioms
- While "trả lễ" itself is the standard term, the practice is central to the idiom "có đi có lại" (to have giving, to have returning), which encapsulates the principle of reciprocity.
- Theo phong tục, phải giữ lễ "có đi có lại". (According to custom, one must observe the "give and take" courtesy.)