đọ sức
Definition
- Verb:
- To compete in strength or skill: The primary meaning of "đọ sức" is to engage in a contest, match, or competition to determine who is stronger, more skilled, or superior in a specific area. It implies a direct comparison of power, ability, or endurance.
- To measure oneself against: It conveys the act of testing one's own capabilities against those of an opponent or a challenge.
Usage Examples
- Verb:
- Hai đô vật sẽ đọ sức trên võ đài. (The two wrestlers will compete in strength on the mat.)
- Chúng tôi muốn đọ sức với đội vô địch. (We want to measure ourselves against the champion team.)
- Đây là cơ hội để đọ sức trí tuệ. (This is a chance to compete in intellect.)
Advanced Usage
- The term often implies a formal or intense contest, not a casual game. It is commonly used in contexts of sports, intellectual battles, business competition, or any arena where comparative strength is tested.
- It can be used figuratively to describe competing against non-human challenges, such as difficulties or nature.
- Con người đọ sức với thiên nhiên. (Mankind contends with nature.)
Variants and Related Words
- Thi đấu (v): to compete, to play a match. This is a more general term for competition.
- Tranh tài (v): to contend, to vie in talent. Emphasizes a competition of skills or talents.
- So tài (v): to compare skills, to pit one's talents against another. Similar to "tranh tài."
Synonyms
- Compete: to strive to gain or win something by defeating or establishing superiority over others.
- Contend: to struggle in opposition or rivalry.
- Vie: to compete eagerly with someone for something.
Related Idioms
- Đọ sức đọ tài: to compete in both strength and talent; a comprehensive contest of ability.
- Giải đấu là nơi để các vận động viên đọ sức đọ tài. (The tournament is a place for athletes to compete in strength and skill.)