vọng đăng
Definition
- 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.