trối trăng
Definition
- Verb:
- To give last words / to utter a dying wish: The primary meaning of "trối trăng" is to express one's final wishes, instructions, or advice to loved ones when on the verge of death.
- To make final arrangements or recommendations: It implies a careful, earnest, and often urgent imparting of crucial information or desires before passing away.
Usage Examples
- Verb:
- Ông cụ ốm nặng, đang trối trăng cho con cháu. (The old man is gravely ill, giving his last words to his children and grandchildren.)
- Bà ấy mất đột ngột, không kịp trối trăng điều gì. (She passed away suddenly, without having time to utter any dying wishes.)
Advanced Usage
- The term carries a solemn and formal tone, used almost exclusively in the context of impending death and final communication. It is a specific and poignant act within Vietnamese cultural traditions surrounding death and family duty.
Variants and Related Words
- Trăn trối (v): This is a more common variant with the identical meaning: to give dying words or last instructions.
- Trước khi nhắm mắt, bà đã trăn trối mọi việc. (Before closing her eyes, she gave her last instructions about everything.)
Synonyms
- To bequeath a final wish: To leave a last request as a legacy.
- To give parting instructions: To offer final guidance before departure (specifically death).
Related Idioms
- Chết không kịp trối: To die without a chance to give last words. This idiom highlights a sudden or unprepared death, often seen as a tragic or unsettled passing.
- Tai nạn thảm khốc khiến nạn nhân chết không kịp trối. (The horrific accident caused the victims to die without a chance for last words.)