Definition

1. Noun:
   • Lighthouse: A tall tower or structure equipped with a powerful light at the top, used to guide ships and warn them of dangerous areas along a coast or shore. This is the primary and historical meaning.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Ánh sáng từ ngọn vọng đăng xa xa là tín hiệu an toàn cho các thuyền. (The light from the distant lighthouse is a safe signal for the boats.)
  • Người canh vọng đăng sống một mình trên đảo. (The lighthouse keeper lives alone on the island.)

Advanced Usage

• The term "vọng đăng" is considered archaic or literary in modern Vietnamese. In contemporary usage, "hải đăng" is the standard and more common word for "lighthouse."
  • Tháp hải đăng này được xây dựng từ thế kỷ 19. (This lighthouse tower was built in the 19th century.)

Variants and Related Words

• Hải đăng (n): Lighthouse (modern and standard term).
• Đèn biển (n): Lighthouse (literal: "sea light").

Synonyms

• Lighthouse: A tower with a light for guiding maritime traffic.
• Beacon: A fire or light set up in a high or prominent position as a warning, signal, or celebration.

Notes on Usage

• "Vọng đăng" is a Sino-Vietnamese compound word: "vọng" (to look into the distance, to hope) + "đăng" (lamp, light). It poetically conveys the idea of a "light to gaze upon from afar" or a "hopeful light."
• You will encounter this word primarily in historical texts, poetry, or literary descriptions. For everyday conversation and modern writing, "hải đăng" is recommended.