bàn đạp

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The Vietnamese word "bàn đạp" primarily means "pedal" or "treadle." It refers to a device that is pushed by the foot to operate a machine or vehicle. Here’s a breakdown of its uses and meanings:

Basic Definition:

1. Pedal/Treadle: A part of machines like sewing machines that you press with your foot to make them work.

   • Example: In sewing machines, the "bàn đạp" allows you to control the speed of the needle.

2. Pedal Boat: A type of boat that is powered by foot pedals instead of a motor.

   • Example: "Thuyền chạy bằng bàn đạp" translates to "a pedal boat," which is a fun way to row on a lake.

Extended Meanings:

• Jumping-off Place: It can also refer to a starting point for a more ambitious or larger undertaking.

  • Example: "Vị trí bàn đạp" means "a jumping-off position," indicating a base for starting a new project or effort.

• Springboard for Attack: In a strategic context, it can mean using a location as a base to launch an attack.

  • Example: "Chiếm một thị trấn làm bàn đạp để đánh vào thành phố" means "to take a locality and use it as a springboard for an attack on a city."

Advanced Usage:

• Stepping-Stone: The term can be used metaphorically to describe something that helps someone progress towards a goal.
  • Example: "Bàn đạp đầu tiên trên con đường đến thành công" translates to "a first stepping-stone on the path to success," indicating an initial achievement that leads to greater successes.

Word Variants:

• While "bàn đạp" itself is quite specific, it can be combined with other words to form phrases like "bàn đạp máy khâu" (sewing-machine treadle) or "bàn đạp xe đạp" (bicycle pedal).

Synonyms:

• Đạp: This verb means "to pedal" or "to step on," which relates closely to "bàn đạp."
• Chân vịt: This means "propeller" but can sometimes refer to similar concepts in the context of boats.

Different Meaning:

• In a broader sense, "bàn đạp" can symbolize any foundational element that enables further progress, whether in personal achievements or strategic plans.

Usage Instructions:

When using "bàn đạp," consider the context—whether you are discussing physical pedals, metaphorical stepping stones, or strategic positions. It is often used in discussions around machines, sports, or planning for success.

Academic

noun

1. Stirrup
2. Pedal, treadle
   • bàn đạp máy khâu
     a sewing-machine's treadle
   • thuyền chạy bằng bàn đạp, thuyền đạp
     a pedal boat
3. Springboard, jumping-off place
   • vị trí bàn đạp
     a jumping-off position
   • chiếm một thị trấn làm bàn đạp để đánh vào thành phố
     to take a locality and use it as a springboard for an attack on a city
   • bàn đạp đầu tiên trên con đường đến thành công
     a first stepping-stone on the path to success