tốt nết
Definition
- Adjective:
- Well-behaved; of good character: Describes a person, typically a woman or girl, who possesses and consistently displays good moral qualities, gentle manners, and a kind, agreeable disposition.
Usage Examples
- (She is a very well-behaved woman of good character.)
- (She praised her granddaughter for being obedient and well-behaved.)
- (He wants to find a gentle, good-natured wife.)
Advanced Usage
- The term "tốt nết" is often used in a somewhat traditional or conservative context to evaluate, often positively, a person's moral character and demeanor, with a particular historical association with describing feminine virtues.
- It implies a consistency in good behavior rather than a single good action.
Variants and Related Words
- Hiền lành (adj): gentle, meek, good-natured.
- Ngoan ngoãn (adj): obedient, well-behaved (often used for children).
- Đức hạnh (n): virtue, moral integrity.
Synonyms
- Virtuous: having high moral standards.
- Good-natured: kind, patient, and forgiving.
- Well-mannered: polite and exhibiting good social behavior.
Related Idioms
- "Tiếng lành đồn xa, tiếng dữ đồn xa hơn": While not containing "tốt nết," this proverb about reputation is related. It means "Good news travels fast, but bad news travels even faster."