đọ tài
Definition
- Verb phrase:
- To compete in skill/talent: To engage in a contest or comparison to determine who possesses greater ability, expertise, or cleverness in a particular field.
- To match wits: To pit one's intelligence, cunning, or strategic thinking against another's.
Usage Examples
- Verb phrase:
- Hai kỳ thủ ngồi lại để đọ tài. (The two chess players sat down to compete in skill.)
- Chương trình truyền hình đó là nơi các đầu bếp trẻ đọ tài. (That TV show is where young chefs match their talents.)
- Họ đọ tài nhau trên thương trường. (They are pitting their wits against each other in the business arena.)
Advanced Usage
- The phrase often implies a respectful or formal competition focused on mental ability, artistry, or specialized knowledge, rather than physical strength alone. It is commonly used in contexts like academics, arts, business strategy, or games.
Variants and Related Words
- Thi tài (verb phrase): to compete in talent; has a very similar meaning, often used interchangeably.
- Cuộc thi cho họ cơ hội thi tài. (The contest gave them a chance to compete in talent.)
Synonyms
- To compete in skill: To contend to see who is more skilled.
- To vie in talent: To strive for superiority in ability.
- To match skills: To test one's abilities against another's.
Related Idioms
- Đọ sức, đọ tài: A common pairing meaning "to compete in strength and skill," covering both physical and mental contests.
- Giải đấu là cơ hội để đọ sức, đọ tài. (The tournament is a chance to compete in strength and skill.)