xin vâng

Definition

  1. Interjection:

    • Yes, certainly / I agree: A polite and formal expression of agreement, consent, or acceptance of an instruction, request, or command. It conveys respect and deference, often to a superior or elder.
    • As you wish / Very well: An affirmative response indicating compliance or acknowledgment, similar to "very well" or "as you wish."

  2. Verb Phrase (archaic/formal):

    • To humbly accept / To obey: The literal meaning combines "xin" (to ask, to beg, to request) and "vâng" (to obey, to assent), forming a phrase meaning "to humbly accept and obey."
Usage Examples
  • Interjection:
    • "Con hãy làm bài tập đi." – "Dạ, con xin vâng." ("Please do your homework." – "Yes, I will.")
    • "Ngày mai em nhớ đến sớm nhé." – "Vâng, em xin vâng." ("Remember to come early tomorrow." – "Yes, certainly.")
  • Verb Phrase:
    • Thần tử xin vâng chỉ dụ của bệ hạ. (The servant humbly obeys the emperor's decree.)
Advanced Usage
  • This phrase is deeply rooted in hierarchical and formal communication, common in historical contexts, traditional families, or very polite situations. Its usage has declined in modern casual conversation, where "dạ, vâng" or simply "vâng" is more common for "yes."
Variants and Related Words
  • Vâng (interjection): Yes; a common affirmative response, less formal than "xin vâng."
    • "Bác có khỏe không?" – "Vâng, tôi khỏe." ("Are you well?" – "Yes, I am.")
  • Dạ (interjection): A polite particle used to show attentiveness or respect, often combined with "vâng."
    • "Dạ, vâng, con biết rồi." (Yes, I understand.)
  • Tuân lệnh (verb): To obey an order (more direct, often used in military or official contexts).
Synonyms
  • Certainly: Used to express definite agreement.
  • As you wish: A polite expression of compliance.
  • I obey: A formal declaration of obedience (closer to the archaic verb sense).
Related Idioms and Set Phrases
  • Vâng lời: To be obedient (to someone).
    • Đứa trẻ rất biết vâng lời cha mẹ. (The child is very obedient to his parents.)
  • Bẩm vâng: An extremely deferential and archaic phrase for "yes, sir/madam," used when reporting to a superior.
    • "Bẩm vâng, tiểu nhân xin đi ngay." (Yes, sir, I will go immediately.)