ăn tiền

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The Vietnamese phrase "ăn tiền" literally translates to "to eat money," but it is often used as a slang term meaning "to take bribes." It describes a situation where someone, usually in a position of power or authority, receives money or gifts in exchange for favors or to influence decisions.

Usage Instructions

• "Ăn tiền" is commonly used in the context of corruption, especially among officials or public servants.
• It is typically used in a negative sense, implying dishonesty or unethical behavior.

Examples

1. Quan lại ăn tiền của dân.

   • Translation: The mandarins take bribes from the people.
   • Explanation: This sentence illustrates how some officials may exploit their authority for personal gain.

2. Cách sắp xếp như vậy chắc chắn ăn tiền.

   • Translation: Such an arrangement will certainly bring good results.
   • Explanation: This example suggests that a particular arrangement might be influenced by bribes, leading to favorable outcomes for those involved.

Advanced Usage

In more complex discussions, "ăn tiền" can be used to critique systemic corruption within institutions or to highlight the moral failings of individuals in power. For example: - Chúng ta cần phải đấu tranh chống lại việc quan chức ăn tiền. - Translation: We need to fight against officials taking bribes.

Word Variants

• Ăn hối lộ: This phrase also means "to take bribes" and is more formal than "ăn tiền."
• Hối lộ: This noun means "bribe" itself.

Different Meanings

While "ăn tiền" primarily refers to taking bribes, it can also be used metaphorically to indicate someone benefiting unfairly from a situation, though this usage is less common.

Synonyms

• Nhận hối lộ: To accept bribes.
• Làm bậy: To do wrong or unethical things.
• Tham nhũng: Corruption.

Academic

verb

1. To take bribes
   • quan lại ăn tiền của dân
     The mandarins take bribes from the people
2. To bring good results
   • cách sắp xếp như vậy chắc chắn ăn tiền
     such an arrangement will certainly bring good results