Signification
Respect teachers regardless of amount taught.
Contexte culturel
The proverb is the foundation of 'Ngày Nhà giáo Việt Nam' (Nov 20). On this day, students nationwide visit teachers with flowers and gifts, often reciting this phrase. This phrase is part of the 'Three Bonds' (Tam Cương) philosophy where the teacher-student bond is a pillar of social stability. In Vietnamese startups, 'mentorship' is often framed through this proverb to encourage senior developers to teach juniors. In Vovinam or traditional wrestling, the 'Sư phụ' (Master) is treated with this proverb's level of respect for life.
The Power of 'Thầy'
In Vietnam, 'Thầy' is not just for school. It's for monks, doctors (thầy thuốc), and even fortune tellers. Using this proverb elevates the person you are thanking to a very high status.
Don't overdo it
If you say this to a waiter who showed you how to open a bottle, it sounds like you are making fun of them. Keep it for genuine learning.
Signification
Respect teachers regardless of amount taught.
The Power of 'Thầy'
In Vietnam, 'Thầy' is not just for school. It's for monks, doctors (thầy thuốc), and even fortune tellers. Using this proverb elevates the person you are thanking to a very high status.
Don't overdo it
If you say this to a waiter who showed you how to open a bottle, it sounds like you are making fun of them. Keep it for genuine learning.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb.
Một chữ cũng là ______, nửa chữ cũng là ______.
The proverb repeats 'thầy' to emphasize that the status is the same regardless of the amount taught.
In which situation is this phrase MOST appropriate?
You are visiting your primary school teacher after 10 years.
This phrase perfectly expresses long-term gratitude for early education.
Choose the best response to show humility.
A: 'Cảm ơn em đã giúp anh sửa máy tính.' B: 'Dạ không có gì ạ, ______.'
By using the proverb, B is being humble and suggesting that even a small tip makes them a 'teacher' in that moment, though usually, it's the other way around (the person being helped says it). Note: In this specific dialogue, B is being slightly playful/humble.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesMột chữ cũng là ______, nửa chữ cũng là ______.
The proverb repeats 'thầy' to emphasize that the status is the same regardless of the amount taught.
You are visiting your primary school teacher after 10 years.
This phrase perfectly expresses long-term gratitude for early education.
A: 'Cảm ơn em đã giúp anh sửa máy tính.' B: 'Dạ không có gì ạ, ______.'
By using the proverb, B is being humble and suggesting that even a small tip makes them a 'teacher' in that moment, though usually, it's the other way around (the person being helped says it). Note: In this specific dialogue, B is being slightly playful/humble.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
3 questionsYes. While 'Thầy' literally means 'Master/Male Teacher,' in this proverb, it represents the role of the teacher regardless of gender. However, in direct address, you would still say 'Cô' for a female teacher.
Absolutely. It is still the most common phrase used in schools and professional mentorship programs in Vietnam.
The full version is 'Một chữ cũng là thầy, nửa chữ cũng là thầy.' It's a hyperbolic way to say that even the smallest fragment of knowledge is valuable.
Expressions liées
Không thầy đố mày làm nên
similarWithout a teacher, you can't succeed.
Tôn sư trọng đạo
builds onRespect teachers, honor the way.
Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây
similarWhen eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree.
