khoán

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The Vietnamese word "khoán" has several meanings and uses, making it an interesting term to learn. Here’s a breakdown for you:

Basic Definition:

1. Contract or Written Promise: In many cases, "khoán" refers to a written agreement or promise, often required in specific contexts, such as legal or formal situations.

Usage Instructions:

• "Khoán" is typically used in formal settings, especially when discussing agreements, contracts, or arrangements. You would encounter it in contexts involving work contracts, business agreements, or any formal promises.

Examples:

1. In contracts:

   • "Làng bắt phải làm tờ khoán" means "The village required a written promise." This shows that a formal agreement was necessary for a specific action, like selling one's child to a pagoda.

2. In work arrangements:

   • "Khoán thợ xây nhà" means "to hire a mason by the piece for the building of a house." This indicates that payment or work is arranged based on specific tasks or pieces of work completed.

Advanced Usage:

• "Khoán" can also imply a system of accountability or performance-based contracts in various sectors, such as agriculture or construction. For instance, farmers might work under a "khoán" system where they are paid based on the amount of produce they deliver.

Word Variants:

• There are related terms derived from "khoán":
  • Khoán trắng: This term refers to a blank contract or a very vague agreement where details are not clearly defined.
  • Khoán sản xuất: This refers to production contracts, especially in agriculture, where farmers are contracted to produce specific amounts of crops.

Different Meanings:

• Beyond contracts, "khoán" can also refer to a quota or a limit placed on something, such as the amount of work to be done or resources to be used.

Synonyms:

• Hợp đồng: Means "contract" and is a more general term used in various contexts for agreements.
• Cam kết: Means "commitment" or "pledge," often used in personal or informal agreements.

Conclusion:

In summary, "khoán" is a versatile word in Vietnamese that primarily refers to written agreements or contracts, especially in formal or business contexts.

Academic

1. Written promise
   • Làng bắt phải làm tờ khoán
     The village required a written promise
2. Contract to sell one's child to a pagoda
3. Hire by the piece
   • Khoán thợ xây nhà
     To hire a mason by the piece for the buiding of a house