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    Vietnamese

    Explore untranslatable words and expressions from Vietnamese.

    63 phrases in Vietnamese

    • Vietnamese

      Áo dài

      /OW-ZAI/

      The Áo dài is Vietnam's quintessential national attire, a gracefully flowing tunic worn over trousers that epitomizes elegance, modesty, and feminine allure. It is a powerful symbol of Vietnamese national pride and beauty, seamlessly blending tradition with a timeless aesthetic. More than mere clothing, it embodies the spirit and identity of the Vietnamese people, evoking deep cultural belonging and a profound sense of heritage. Its silhouette subtly enhances the wearer's form while maintaining an air of sophisticated grace.

      Lit. long shirt

      Worn by women and sometimes men on special occasions like weddings, Tết (Lunar New Year), graduations, and performances. It is also worn by flight attendants and students in some schools.

      Vietnam
      belonging
    • Vietnamese

      Mùa nước nổi

      /Moo-ah nook naw-uh/

      Mùa nước nổi, literally 'season of rising waters,' is the annual, life-giving flood in the Mekong Delta, transforming the landscape into a vast, shimmering inland sea. This period, typically from August to November, brings nutrient-rich sediment, replenishing the soil, and an explosion of aquatic life, crucial for the region's agriculture and fishing. It's a time of profound natural renewal, where communities embrace the water's embrace, adapting their homes, livelihoods, and daily rhythms to its powerful, nurturing presence.

      Lit. Season of rising waters

      Used to describe the specific time of year in the Mekong Delta when rivers overflow their banks, usually from around August to November.

      Vietnam
      belonging
    • Vietnamese

      Non sông

      /NON SONG/

      “Non sông” transcends mere patriotism, embodying an unbreakable, almost sacred bond with Vietnam itself. It's a profound, visceral love for the nation's majestic landscapes – its winding rivers and resilient mountains – interwoven with a deep reverence for its storied history of struggle and triumph. This term signifies an emotional, spiritual, and ancestral connection, representing the collective soul and identity of the Vietnamese people, nurtured by centuries of shared experience and an enduring spirit of independence.

      Lit. mountain river

      Used to express deep affection and loyalty towards one's country, often in patriotic speeches, songs, or when discussing national identity and heritage.

      Vietnam
      belonging
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