sĩ

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The Vietnamese word "sĩ" has several meanings and usages, primarily relating to scholars and intellectuals in a historical context.

Basic Meaning:

In the feudal system of Vietnam, "sĩ" refers to a scholar or intellectual. Historically, "sĩ" represented educated individuals who played important roles in society, particularly in governance, culture, and education.

Usage Instructions:

• "Sĩ" is often used in contexts discussing education, culture, or historical roles in Vietnamese society.
• You can use "sĩ" to describe someone who is well-educated or holds a high position in the intellectual community.

Examples:

1. Kẻ sĩ: This phrase means "intellectual" or "scholar." It can refer to someone who is educated and contributes to society through knowledge.

   • Example: "Kẻ sĩ thường tham gia vào việc giảng dạy và nghiên cứu." (Scholars often participate in teaching and research.)

2. Nhất sĩ nhì nông: This phrase translates to "first come the scholars, then the peasants." It reflects the societal hierarchy where education was valued above agricultural work.

   • Example: "Trong xã hội xưa, người ta thường nói 'nhất sĩ nhì nông' để nhấn mạnh tầm quan trọng của tri thức." (In ancient society, people often said 'first come the scholars, then the peasants' to emphasize the importance of knowledge.)

Advanced Usage:

• In chess, "sĩ" can also refer to a specific piece called the "bishop." This usage is less common but demonstrates the versatility of the word.
• In literature or philosophical discussions, "sĩ" might be used to discuss the role of intellectuals in shaping society and culture.

Word Variants:

• Sĩ phu: Refers to intellectuals or gentlemen, often emphasizing their moral and ethical responsibilities.
• Sĩ diện: This phrase means "dignity of a scholar" and refers to the reputation and honor associated with being educated.

Different Meanings:

• While "sĩ" primarily refers to scholars, it can also denote someone with a noble or honorable character.
• In a more figurative sense, it can imply wisdom or intelligence, not limited to formal education.

Synonyms:

• Tri thức: Knowledge or intellect; refers more broadly to knowledge without the historical context.
• Nho sĩ: Confucian scholar; specifically refers to scholars influenced by Confucian ideals.

Academic

1. Feudal scholar, feudal intellectual, feudal intelligentsia
   • Nhất sĩ nhì nông
     First come the scholars, nest the peasants
   • Kẻ sĩ
     An intellectual
2. Bishop (a chess piece)