Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Majestic, dignified, stately: Describes a person's appearance, posture, or manner of movement that is imposing, grand, and commands respect due to a sense of solemnity or authority.
   • Portly (archaic): In older usage, it could describe a person who is stout or heavy-set in a dignified way.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Ông ấy bước vào phòng với dáng vẻ đường bệ. (He entered the room with a majestic demeanor.)
  • Tượng Phật được tạc với tư thế đường bệ. (The Buddha statue is carved in a dignified posture.)
  • Vị tướng già có dáng đi đường bệ. (The old general has a stately gait.)

Advanced Usage

• This word is considered somewhat literary or formal. It is often used to describe figures of authority, elders, sacred objects, or architecture that conveys grandeur and solemnity.
• It can describe both physical appearance (like a portly build) and abstract qualities (like a dignified manner).

Variants and Related Words

• Uy nghi (adj): Majestic, awe-inspiring. Often used for sacred or royal contexts.
• Trang nghiêm (adj): Solemn, dignified. Emphasizes seriousness and respectfulness.
• Oai vệ (adj): Commanding, authoritative. Emphasizes power and authority.

Synonyms

• Oai nghiêm: Majestic and solemn.
• Trịnh trọng: Ceremonious, formal.
• Bệ vệ (less common): Stately, dignified.

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning revolves around dignified grandeur. While the old French-Vietnamese dictionary lists "majestueux" (majestic) and the older English reference uses "portly," the modern primary understanding focuses on the imposing and respectable quality, not necessarily physical stoutness.
• The example "đi đứng đường bệ" (to have a portly gait) from the reference context highlights the aspect of dignified movement or bearing.

1. (cũ) Portly
   • Đi đứng đường bệ
     To have a portly gait