cài

Friendly

The Vietnamese word "cài" is a versatile verb commonly used in various contexts. Below is a detailed explanation for new learners:

Basic Meaning:

1. To Pin or Fasten: "Cài" often refers to the act of attaching or securing something in place.

   • Example: "cài huy hiệu lên mũ" means "to pin a badge on one's hat."
   • Example: "cài (cúc) áo" means "to fasten (the buttons of) one's jacket."

2. To Lay or Set: "Cài" can also mean to lay something down or to set something in a particular position.

   • Example: "cài bẫy" means "to lay a trap."
   • Example: "cài mìn" means "to set a mine trap."

Advanced Usage:

• In a more complex context, "cài" can be used to indicate the act of placing something that is intended to deceive or cause harm. For instance:
  • Example: "phát hiện bọn gián điệp do địch cài lại" means "to unmask spies planted by the enemy."

Word Variants:

• "Cài đặt": This phrase means "to install" or "to set up," commonly used in technology and software contexts.
• "Cài vào": This can mean "to attach to" or "to insert into," further emphasizing the act of fastening or connecting.

Different Meanings:

• Literal vs. Figurative: While "cài" primarily refers to physical actions of pinning or fastening, it can also be used metaphorically to describe situations where something is set in place, like an arrangement or a plan (e.g., setting up a scheme).

Synonyms:

• Gắn: This verb means "to attach" or "to connect," and can often be used interchangeably with "cài" in certain contexts.
• Buộc: This means "to tie" and conveys a similar idea of securing or fastening, although it may imply a different method or material (like rope).

Usage Instructions:

• When using "cài," think about the context in which you are referring to securing or arranging something. It is often followed by a noun that represents the object being fastened or laid down.
• Be mindful of the context in which "cài" is used, as it can shift from a physical action to a more abstract concept, such as deception or strategy.

Academic

verb

1. To pin, to fasten
   • cài huy hiệu lên mũ
     to pin a badge on one's hat
   • cài (cúc) áo
     to fasten (the buttons of) one's jacket
   • cửa đóng then cài
     door closed and bolt fastened
2. To lay, to set, to plant
   • cài bẫy
     to lay a trap
   • cài mìn
     to set a mine trap
   • phát hiện bọn gián điệp do địch cài lại
     to unmask spies planted by the enemy