The Vietnamese word "phép cưới" translates to "civil marriage" in English. It refers to a legal union between two people that is recognized by the government, rather than a religious ceremony. In Vietnam, a "phép cưới" is necessary for a couple to be officially considered married under the law.
In more advanced discussions, "phép cưới" can be compared with "hôn lễ" (wedding ceremony), which refers to the celebration aspect of marriage. You might say: - "Mặc dù chúng tôi đã có phép cưới, nhưng chúng tôi vẫn muốn tổ chức một hôn lễ lớn."
(Although we have a civil marriage, we still want to hold a big wedding ceremony.)
While "phép cưới" specifically denotes a civil marriage, it may be used in discussions about the legal requirements for marriage in Vietnam. It does not imply any religious or traditional elements that might be part of a wedding.