quở quang

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The Vietnamese word "quở quang" refers to the act of bringing bad luck or misfortune upon someone, often as a result of excessive praise or admiration. It is derived from the idea that praising someone too much can attract negative energies or ill fortune.

Usage Instructions:

• "Quở quang" is typically used in contexts where someone receives compliments or praise, and there is a superstition or belief that this may lead to them facing bad luck or challenges afterward.
• It is important to use this term in a light-hearted or cautionary context, as it reflects cultural beliefs about the balance of praise and humility.

Example:

• "Thằng bé béo tốt ra, nhiều người quở quang."
  • Translation: "The little boy has put on a lot of flesh, and many people may bring bad luck on him by praising him."

Advanced Usage:

• You can use "quở quang" in discussions about cultural beliefs regarding luck and superstitions in Vietnamese society. For example: "Trong văn hóa Việt Nam, người ta thường tránh quở quang khi khen ngợi trẻ em."
  • Translation: "In Vietnamese culture, people often avoid praising children too much to prevent bringing bad luck."

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants of "quở quang," but you may encounter different phrases that discuss luck or praise, such as "khen ngợi" (to praise) or "xui xẻo" (bad luck).

Different Meanings:

• While "quở quang" primarily refers to attracting bad luck through praise, it can also imply caution against boasting or being overly proud. It serves as a reminder to maintain humility and awareness of one’s circumstances.

Synonyms:

• "Bị xui" (to be unlucky)
• "Gặp họa" (to encounter misfortune) These synonyms capture the essence of experiencing bad luck but may not carry the specific connotation of being caused by praise.

Academic

1. Put a jinx on (bring bad luck on) by a praise
   • Thằng bé béo tốt ra, nhiều người quở quang
     The little boy has put on a lot of flesh and many people may bring bad luck on him by a praise