ân sư
Definition
- Noun:
- Benefactor, patron: A person who has provided significant help, favor, or kindness, often creating a lasting debt of gratitude. This meaning emphasizes the "ân" (favor/grace) aspect.
- Teacher, mentor (archaic): A person who provided education or crucial guidance. This meaning emphasizes the "sư" (teacher/master) aspect. This usage is now less common.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Ông ấy chính là ân sư đã giúp tôi vượt qua khó khăn. (He is the benefactor who helped me overcome difficulties.)
- Theo truyền thống, học trò phải nhớ ơn ân sư. (Traditionally, students must remember the grace of their teacher.)
Advanced Usage
- The term "ân sư" carries a deep, formal, and somewhat literary connotation. It implies a profound and respectful gratitude, stronger than simple thanks for minor help. It is often used in formal speeches, writing, or when referring to a pivotal figure in one's life or career.
Variants and Related Words
- Ân nhân (n): Benefactor. This is a more common and direct synonym for the "person who did a favor" meaning of "ân sư".
- Tôi mãi mãi biết ơn vị ân nhân cứu mạng. (I am forever grateful to the benefactor who saved my life.)
- Sư phụ (n): Master, teacher (common in martial arts or skilled trades contexts).
- Anh ấy tôn kính sư phụ của mình. (He respects his master.)
Synonyms
- Benefactor: A person who gives help, especially financial aid.
- Patron: A person who supports with money, gifts, or influence.
- Mentor (for the guiding aspect): An experienced advisor.
Related Idioms
- Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây: Literally "When eating the fruit, remember the planter." This Vietnamese proverb shares the core sentiment of remembering one's benefactors or origins, similar to the gratitude implied by "ân sư".
- Chúng ta phải biết "ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây", không được quên ân sư. (We must know that "when eating the fruit, remember the planter," and must not forget our benefactors.)