ưng khuyển
Definition
- Noun (Archaic):
- Falcon and hound: Literally refers to birds of prey (falcons/eagles) and hunting dogs. Historically, these animals were used by nobility for hunting and sport.
- Lackeys; henchmen: A figurative and derogatory term for followers or subordinates who are blindly loyal and used to carry out orders, often unethical or violent tasks, for their master. It implies a servile and unscrupulous character.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Tên tướng cướp đó luôn có một bọn ưng khuyển trung thành. (That robber chief always has a band of loyal henchmen.)
- Hắn chỉ là tay ưng khuyển cho bọn xấu. (He is merely a lackey for the bad guys.)
Advanced Usage
- The term is almost exclusively used in literary, historical, or formal contexts to convey strong contempt. It is not used in modern everyday conversation.
Word Origin and Notes
- Etymology: The term originates from the Sino-Vietnamese lexicon: "ưng" (鷹) means eagle/falcon and "khuyển" (犬) means dog. These animals were symbols of loyal tools in the service of a master.
- Register: This is an archaic, literary term. Its usage today is primarily metaphorical for describing servile followers.
Synonyms
- Henchmen: Loyal followers, especially those who carry out unscrupulous orders.
- Lackeys: Servile followers who perform menial tasks.
- Minions: Submissive dependents.
- Acolytes: Followers or attendants (can be less derogatory).
Related Concepts
- Tay sai: (Vietnamese) A more common modern synonym meaning "henchman" or "puppet."
- Chó săn: (Vietnamese) Literally "hunting dog"; a derogatory term for a henchman.