tùng
Definition
- Noun:
- Pine tree: A type of coniferous tree, often symbolizing longevity and resilience in Vietnamese culture. This is the primary meaning.
- A subordinate rank (historical): In the old mandarin ranking system, "tùng" denoted a secondary or lower grade attached to a main rank.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Trên núi có nhiều cây tùng cổ thụ. (On the mountain, there are many ancient pine trees.)
- Ông ta được phong chức tùng thất phẩm. (He was conferred the rank of subordinate seventh grade.)
Advanced Usage
- "tùng phèo": A colloquial and somewhat pejorative term for a person's entourage or lackeys.
- Tên trùm đi đâu cũng có một đám tùng phèo theo sau. (Wherever the boss goes, he has a bunch of lackeys following him.)
Variants and Related Words
Cây tùng (n): pine tree.
- Cây tùng thường xanh quanh năm. (Pine trees are usually evergreen all year round.)
Tùng bách (n): a term combining pine and cypress, often used to refer to pine trees or to symbolize steadfastness.
- Tình bạn của họ vững bền như tùng bách. (Their friendship is as enduring as the pine and cypress.)
Synonyms
- Pine: A coniferous tree.
- Subordinate rank: A secondary official position (historical).
Related Idioms
- Tùng cúc trúc mai: "Pine, chrysanthemum, bamboo, plum blossom." Refers to the "Four Gentlemen" or "Four Noble Plants" in East Asian culture, symbolizing virtuous qualities.
- Bức tranh tứ quý vẽ tùng cúc trúc mai. (The four-season painting depicts pine, chrysanthemum, bamboo, and plum blossom.)