khấu đầu

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The Vietnamese word "khấu đầu" is a verb that means "to kowtow." This term is often used to describe a deep act of respect or submission, where a person bows down low, touching their forehead to the ground.

Usage Instructions:

• "Khấu đầu" is commonly used in contexts where one shows great respect, often in traditional or formal settings. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is overly submissive or obsequious.

Example:

• In a historical context: "Trong văn hóa truyền thống, người ta thường khấu đầu trước vua." (In traditional culture, people often kowtowed before the king.)

Advanced Usage:

• In modern language, "khấu đầu" can be used figuratively to describe someone who is excessively flattering or submissive to someone in power, such as a boss or a wealthy person.
• Example: "Anh ta lúc nào cũng khấu đầu trước sếp, không dám nói ý kiến của mình." (He always kowtows to his boss, not daring to voice his own opinions.)

Word Variants:

• "Khấu" (to bow) and "đầu" (head) can be used separately in different contexts.
• "Khấu" may appear in other phrases related to bowing or bending down.

Different Meanings:

• While "khấu đầu" primarily means "to kowtow," it can also imply being overly submissive in other situations, not just in a physical sense.
• In some contexts, it can also refer to showing respect in a non-physical manner, such as through words or actions.

Synonyms:

• "Cúi đầu" (to bow down) can be considered a synonym, meaning to bend the head forward as a sign of respect, though it may not carry the same weight of submission as "khấu đầu."
• "Tôn kính" (to honor or respect) can be used in broader contexts where respect is shown without the physical act of bowing.

Academic

verb

1. to knowtow