cổ tích

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The Vietnamese word "cổ tích" is a noun that refers to a type of story, specifically a fairy tale or a legend. These stories often come from the past and are part of cultural heritage. They typically feature magical elements, fantastical creatures, and moral lessons.

Basic Meaning

• Translation: Fairy tale or legend
• Definition: Old stories that are often passed down through generations, usually containing moral lessons or cultural values.

Usage Instructions

You can use "cổ tích" when talking about stories that are traditional and have been told for a long time. It's common to refer to "cổ tích" in children's literature, bedtime stories, or cultural discussions.

Example

• Vietnamese: "Bà kể cho cháu nghe một câu chuyện cổ tích về nàng Bạch Tuyết."
• English: "Grandma told the child a fairy tale about Snow White."

Advanced Usage

In more advanced contexts, "cổ tích" can also be used metaphorically to describe situations or events that seem magical or improbable, drawing parallels between real-life stories and the fantastical nature of fairy tales.

Word Variants

There are no direct variants of "cổ tích," but you can combine it with other words: - Truyện cổ tích: This phrase literally means "fairy tale story," emphasizing the storytelling aspect.

Different Meanings

While "cổ tích" primarily refers to fairy tales and legends, it can also be used to describe any old story or historical account that seems to carry a sense of wonder or nostalgia.

Synonyms

• Huyền thoại: This means "legend" and often refers to stories about historical figures or events that have been embellished over time.
• Truyền thuyết: This translates to "myth" or "traditional tale," similar to "cổ tích" but often more focused on the supernatural or divine aspects.

Conclusion

"Cổ tích" is a rich and culturally significant term in Vietnamese, embodying the magic of storytelling.

Academic

noun

1. Historical vestiges
   • truyện cổ tích
     A legend; old story