có

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The Vietnamese word "có" is a very versatile verb that can mean "to be," "to have," or "to own," depending on the context. It is an essential word in Vietnamese and is used frequently in everyday conversation.

Basic Usage:

1. To indicate existence or presence:

   • Example: Có ai hỏi, bảo tôi đi vắng. (If there is anyone asking for me, tell him I am not at home.)

2. To show possession:

   • Example: Chúng tôi chỉ có ba người tất cả. (There are only three of us in all.)

3. To describe a situation or condition:

   • Example: Cơ hội nghìn năm có một. (There is such an opportunity once in a thousand years; once in a lifetime.)

Advanced Usage:

• In expressions related to age or time:

  • Example: Có tuổi. (To be advanced in years, or to be old.)

• In phrases indicating rights or abilities:

  • Example: Công dân có quyền bầu cử ứng cử.(Citizens have the right to vote and run for office.)

Word Variants:

• "Có" can be combined with other words to form phrases that expand its meaning. For instance:
  • Có mặt (to be present)
  • Có đủ (to have enough)

Different Meanings:

• Besides indicating possession or existence, "có" can also be used in idiomatic expressions to convey specific meanings, such as:
  • Có lý (makes sense)
  • Có ý nghĩa (has meaning)

Synonyms:

• Other words that can be used similarly to "có" in certain contexts include:
  • Sở hữu (to possess)
  • Có được (to obtain)

Summary:

In summary, "có" is a fundamental verb in Vietnamese that signifies existence, possession, and certain conditions. Learning how to use "có" effectively will help you communicate more naturally in Vietnamese.

Academic

verb

1. To be
   • có ai hỏi, bảo tôi đi vắng
     if there is anyone asking for me, tell him I am not at home
   • cơ hội nghìn năm có một
     there is such an opportunity once in a thousand years; once in a lifetime
   • chúng tôi chỉ có ba người tất cả
     there are only three of us in all
   • lá có màu xanh
     leaves are green
   • có tuổi
     to be advanced in years
2. To have, to own
   • người cày có ruộng
     the tillet owns his own land
   • công dân có quyền bầu cử ứng cử