bòn

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The Vietnamese word "bòn" is a verb that means to save or to squeeze out every little bit, often used in the context of being frugal or thrifty. It implies a sense of careful management of resources, whether they are physical items like rice or money.

Basic Usage:

• Meaning: To save every small amount; to be very careful with resources.
• Example: "Bòn từng hột gạo" translates to "to save every grain of rice," indicating the act of being very careful not to waste any food.
• Another Example: "Bòn từng xu của ai" means "to squeeze every penny out of somebody," suggesting a meticulous approach to extracting the maximum value from a situation.

Advanced Usage:

When used in a broader context, "bòn" can imply not just saving, but also being resourceful in difficult situations. It reflects a mindset of valuing even the smallest contributions or amounts, especially in times of scarcity.

Related Words:

• Tiết kiệm: This is another word for "to save," but it has a broader meaning and does not carry the same connotation of squeezing every last bit out.
• Bỏ: This means "to leave out" or "to abandon," which is the opposite of "bòn."

Different Meanings:

While "bòn" primarily refers to saving and being frugal, it can also imply being overly meticulous to the point of being stingy or excessively thrifty, depending on the context.

Synonyms:

• Tiết kiệm: To save
• Lượm lặt: To gather small things, often with care
• Chắt chiu: To be thrifty or careful with resources

Conclusion:

Understanding "bòn" can help you appreciate the value of resources in Vietnamese culture, where being careful and resourceful is often seen as a virtue.

Academic

verb

1. To save every amount of
   • bòn từng hột gạo
     to save every grain of rice
2. To squeeze
   • bòn từng xu của ai
     to squeeze every penny out of somebody