đôi quả một tay

Definition

1. Idiom:
   • To handle two tasks with one hand / To manage two things simultaneously: This idiom literally means "two fruits in one hand." It is used to describe a person, typically a man, who is capable of managing or maintaining two romantic relationships or marriages at the same time. It implies skill, balance, or cunning in juggling two partners.
   • To serve two masters / To have two wives: The most common and specific meaning refers to the practice of a man having two wives, suggesting he can satisfy or manage both.

Usage Examples

• Idiom:
  • Anh ta thật khéo, đôi quả một tay. (He is really clever, managing two relationships at once.)
  • Câu chuyện dân gian thường nhắc đến những người đàn ông đôi quả một tay. (Folktales often mention men who have two wives.)

Advanced Usage

• The idiom is often used in a somewhat admiring, humorous, or critical tone, depending on context, to comment on a person's ability to handle complex dual commitments, not limited solely to marriage.

Variants and Related Words

• Một cổ hai tròng (idiom): Literally "one neck, two yokes." Meaning to be trapped in two difficult situations or burdens at once. This has a more negative connotation than .

Synonyms

• To two-time (someone): To deceive a partner by having a secret romantic relationship with someone else.
• To be a bigamist: A person who marries someone while still legally married to another. (This is a formal/legal term).
• To juggle multiple relationships: To manage several romantic partnerships concurrently.

Related Idioms

• Một vợ một chồng: Literally "one wife one husband." Meaning monogamy. This is the direct opposite concept.
• Trâu buộc ghét trâu ăn: Literally "the tethered buffalo resents the grazing buffalo." Expresses jealousy or resentment from someone in a disadvantaged position towards someone who is free. Can relate to a dynamic in a polygamous situation.