Meaning
Siblings should support each other.
Cultural Background
In Vietnam, the 'Chị' (older sister) often takes on a maternal role. This proverb reinforces that the debt of care is reciprocal. The concept of 'Filial Piety' extends to siblings. Harmony in the home is seen as the basis for a successful life. As families get smaller (1-2 children), this proverb is being applied more broadly to cousins or even very close friends. For families living abroad, this proverb is a way to maintain cultural identity and ensure the children stay connected to their roots.
Use it for Brothers too!
Don't be afraid to use this even if you only have brothers. It's a general proverb for all siblings.
Kinship is Key
Vietnamese culture is built on these kinship terms. Using this proverb shows you understand the 'soul' of the language.
Meaning
Siblings should support each other.
Use it for Brothers too!
Don't be afraid to use this even if you only have brothers. It's a general proverb for all siblings.
Kinship is Key
Vietnamese culture is built on these kinship terms. Using this proverb shows you understand the 'soul' of the language.
Don't over-use
It's a powerful phrase. If you use it for every tiny favor, it loses its impact. Save it for meaningful support.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb.
Chị ngã, em ____.
The correct verb is 'nâng' (to lift/support).
Which situation best fits the proverb 'Chị ngã em nâng'?
Choose the best scenario:
The proverb is about siblings supporting each other through challenges.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Anh ơi, em hết tiền rồi, anh cho em mượn ít nhé?' - B: 'Được chứ, ______.'
This is a natural way to express sibling support in a financial crisis.
What is the primary meaning of 'Chị ngã em nâng'?
Select the figurative meaning:
The proverb emphasizes mutual aid and family solidarity.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesChị ngã, em ____.
The correct verb is 'nâng' (to lift/support).
Choose the best scenario:
The proverb is about siblings supporting each other through challenges.
A: 'Anh ơi, em hết tiền rồi, anh cho em mượn ít nhé?' - B: 'Được chứ, ______.'
This is a natural way to express sibling support in a financial crisis.
Select the figurative meaning:
The proverb emphasizes mutual aid and family solidarity.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsLiterally, yes. But in this proverb, it represents the 'older' party in a sibling relationship.
Yes, if you consider them as close as a sibling. It's a high compliment to the friendship.
Not at all. While it's an ancient proverb, it's used daily in modern Vietnam.
The proverb implies mutual support. It's just phrased this way for rhythm. If the younger falls, the older lifts!
This is already the standard form. In very formal writing, you might use 'tinh thần tương trợ trong gia đình'.
It's the 'broken' tone. Imagine your voice tripping and then jumping back up.
Only if it's a family-run business. Otherwise, it's too personal.
'Lá lành' is about the rich helping the poor. 'Chị ngã' is specifically about siblings.
People will understand you, but it's not the 'canonical' form of the proverb.
Yes, many folk-inspired songs about family use this lyric.
Related Phrases
Anh em như thể tay chân
similarSiblings are like hands and feet.
Lá lành đùm lá rách
similarThe intact leaf covers the torn leaf.
Máu chảy ruột mềm
builds onWhen blood flows, the gut softens (pities).
Anh em kiến giả nhất phận
contrastSiblings, once married, have their own lives/fates.
