làm lẽ

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The Vietnamese word "làm lẽ" refers to the act of becoming a concubine or a secondary wife. In traditional contexts, this term is associated with a woman who has a relationship with a man who is already married, often without the formal status of being a wife.

Usage Instructions:

• "Làm lẽ" is often used in historical or cultural discussions, particularly when talking about family structures in the past.
• It may also come up in literature, films, or discussions about relationships in Vietnamese culture.

Example:

• "Trong xã hội xưa, nhiều người phụ nữ đã phải làm lẽ để có chỗ đứng trong gia đình." (In ancient society, many women had to become concubines to secure their place in the family.)

Advanced Usage:

In modern contexts, the term "làm lẽ" can imply a social critique or commentary on relationships that lack equality. It's important to approach it with sensitivity due to its historical implications and changing societal norms.

Word Variants:

• "Lẽ" alone can mean "secondary" or "lesser," highlighting the idea of being subordinate in a relationship.
• The phrase can be used in different tenses or contexts, such as "đã làm lẽ" (has become a concubine) or "sẽ làm lẽ" (will become a concubine).

Different Meanings:

While "làm lẽ" is primarily used in the context of concubinage, it can also metaphorically describe situations where someone plays a subservient or less important role in a relationship or arrangement.

Synonyms:

• "Bồ" - This term can mean a mistress or girlfriend and is often used in more casual contexts.
• "Thiếp" - This is an older term that also means concubine but may carry a more formal or poetic connotation.

Conclusion:

Understanding "làm lẽ" provides insight into traditional Vietnamese family structures and societal norms.

Academic

1. Become someone's concubine