The Vietnamese word "khóc mướn" translates to "hire to cry" or "professional mourner" in English. It refers to the practice of hiring someone to attend a funeral or a memorial service to mourn and cry, often to show respect for the deceased or to create a more emotional atmosphere.
Usage Instructions:
Context: "khóc mướn" is commonly used in the context of funerals or memorials in Vietnamese culture, where showing grief is important.
Who uses it: This term can be used by anyone discussing cultural practices related to mourning or funerals. It may be used in both casual conversations and more formal discussions about traditions.
Example:
Advanced Usage:
In discussions about cultural practices, you might say, "Khóc mướn không chỉ là một phong tục, mà còn phản ánh sự tôn kính đối với người đã khuất." (Hiring professional mourners is not just a custom, but also reflects respect for the deceased.)
Word Variants:
Khóc: means "to cry."
Mướn: means "to hire."
Different Meaning:
While "khóc mướn" specifically refers to professional mourners, it can also be used in a more general sense to describe someone who is overly dramatic or cries for attention, although this usage is less common.
Synonyms:
Người khóc: literally means "the one who cries," but it does not carry the professional connotation.
Khóc thuê: a variation that means the same as "khóc mướn," emphasizing the act of hiring someone to cry.
Cultural Note:
In Vietnamese culture, the display of grief is considered important, and hiring mourners can sometimes be a way to enhance the emotional experience of a funeral. This practice may vary by region and is not universally accepted.