tướng cướp
Definition
- Noun:
- A bandit leader; a chief of robbers: The primary meaning refers to the leader or commander of a band of robbers, bandits, or thieves.
- (Vulgar/Slang) A formidable or fearsome individual; a "terror": Used colloquially to describe a person who is exceptionally tough, fierce, or intimidating in character or behavior.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Tên tướng cướp đó đã bị cảnh sát bắt giữ. (That bandit leader has been arrested by the police.)
- Đừng có trêu nó, nó là tướng cướp đấy. (Don't tease him; he's a real terror.)
- Băng nhóm đó nguy hiểm vì có một tướng cướp cầm đầu. (That gang is dangerous because it is led by a bandit chief.)
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used metaphorically outside of criminal contexts to describe someone with a domineering, ruthless, or exceptionally forceful personality, often in business, sports, or competitive environments.
- Trong làng bóng đá, anh ấy được coi như một tướng cướp. (In the football world, he is considered a real terror.)
Variants and Related Words
- Cướp (n): robber, thief.
- Tên cướp đã lấy đi ví của bà. (The robber took her wallet.)
- Đầu sỏ (n): ringleader, boss (often of a criminal organization).
- Cảnh sát đang truy lùng đầu sỏ đường dây buôn lậu. (The police are hunting for the ringleader of the smuggling ring.)
Synonyms
- Bandit chief: The leader of a band of robbers.
- Outlaw leader: A leader of lawless individuals.
- Terror (colloquial): A person who causes fear or is formidable.
Related Idioms
- Mặt như tướng cướp: To have a face like a bandit chief; meaning to look very fierce, stern, or intimidating.
- Ông ấy quát lên, mặt như tướng cướp. (He yelled, with a face like a bandit chief.)