tứ đại đồng đường

Definition

1. Noun (Idiomatic Phhrase):
   • Four generations under one roof: A traditional Vietnamese idiom describing a family structure where four consecutive generations (typically the great-grandparent, grandparent, parent, and child) live together in the same household. It symbolizes family harmony, continuity, and filial piety.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Gia đình ông ấy là một hình mẫu của tứ đại đồng đường. (His family is a model of four generations living together.)
  • Giấc mơ của bà tôi là được thấy cảnh tứ đại đồng đường. (My grandmother's dream is to witness four generations under one roof.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is often used in a celebratory or aspirational context to describe a family's happiness and prosperity. It can imply blessings, longevity, and strong family bonds.
  • Trong văn hóa Việt Nam, tứ đại đồng đường được coi là một phúc lớn của gia đình. (In Vietnamese culture, four generations under one roof is considered a great blessing for a family.)

Variants and Related Words

• Tam đại đồng đường (n): Three generations under one roof. A more commonly achieved family structure.
  • Nhiều gia đình Việt Nam hiện nay đạt được tam đại đồng đường. (Many Vietnamese families today achieve three generations living together.)

Synonyms

• Multi-generational household: A household containing more than two generations.
• Extended family living: A broad term for families living together in an extended structure.

Cultural Note

• "Tứ đại đồng đường" is a deeply cultural concept reflecting Confucian values of filial duty and family cohesion. It is often cited as an ideal state of family life and a sign of good fortune and virtue. In modern contexts, it may also be discussed in terms of its social and economic challenges.