Definition

1. Conjunction:
   • As, since, given that: Used to introduce a premise or established fact, implying that what follows is a logical consequence or necessary condition. It emphasizes the acceptance of a role, status, or situation as a basis for reasoning or expectation.

Usage Examples

• Conjunction:
  • Đã là sinh viên thì phải chăm chỉ học hành. (As a student, one must study diligently.)
  • Đã là bạn bè thì nên giúp đỡ nhau lúc khó khăn. (Since we are friends, we should help each other in times of difficulty.)
  • Đã là luật thì mọi người đều phải tuân theo. (Given that it's the law, everyone must obey it.)

Advanced Usage

• "Đã là... thì..." structure: This is the most common and defining grammatical pattern. It sets up a conditional relationship: "If/Given that one is X, then Y (naturally follows/is required)." It often carries a tone of social expectation, inherent duty, or natural consequence.
  • Đã là lãnh đạo thì phải gương mẫu. (If one is a leader, one must be exemplary.)
• Implied obligation or natural quality: The phrase often implies that the action in the second clause is an inherent responsibility or a defining characteristic of the role stated in the first clause.
  • Đã là mùa đông thì trời phải lạnh chứ. (It's winter, so of course the weather has to be cold.)

Variants and Related Words

• Bởi vì: Because (a more general term for cause and effect, without the specific nuance of accepted role/responsibility).
• Vì: Since, because (similar to "bởi vì," but can be more concise).
• Một khi đã: Once (something is/has been)... (Emphasizes the point after a condition is met).
  • Một khi đã hứa thì phải giữ lời. (Once you have promised, you must keep your word.)

Synonyms

• Với tư cách là: In the capacity of, as.
• Bởi lẽ: For the reason that.
• Khi đã: When one is already...

Related Phrases

• Đã đành là... nhưng...: It is true that... but... (Used to concede a point before presenting a counter-argument).
  • Đã đành là anh ấy bận, nhưng cũng nên gọi điện một tiếng chứ. (It's true that he is busy, but he should still make a phone call.)

Related Idioms

• Đã là gì thì ra cái thứ ấy: (Idiomatic) Something should live up to its name/nature; be what it's supposed to be.
  • Đã là diễn viên hài thì ra cái thứ ấy, phải làm cho khán giả cười chứ. (If you're a comedian, then be one; you have to make the audience laugh.)

1. (dùng với thì) As
   • Đã là cha mẹ thì phải có trách nhiệm với con cái
     As parents, we must assume responsibilities towards pur children