thần

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The Vietnamese word "thần" is a noun that has several meanings and usages. Here’s a simple explanation for new learners:

Basic Meaning

1. Deity: In many contexts, "thần" refers to a god or a deity in mythology and religion. For example, in Vietnamese culture, there are many gods worshipped in temples, such as "Thần Tài" (the God of Wealth).

2. Genie: "Thần" can also mean a genie or a spirit that is believed to have special powers or abilities.

3. Extraordinary Skill: Additionally, "thần" can describe someone who has an unusual keenness or extraordinary skill in a particular area, similar to saying someone is a "master" or "wizard" at something.

Example Sentences

• Deity: "Người dân thường đến chùa để cầu nguyện với các vị thần." (People often go to the temple to pray to the deities.)
• Genie: "Trong câu chuyện cổ tích, có một thần giúp hoàng tử." (In the fairy tale, there is a genie that helps the prince.)
• Extraordinary Skill: "Cô ấy là một thần trong việc vẽ tranh." (She is a genius in painting.)

Advanced Usage

• "Thần" can be used in more abstract contexts, for instance, when describing someone's exceptional talent: "Anh ấy chơi piano như một thần." (He plays the piano like a god.)

Word Variants

• Thần thánh: This phrase means "sacred" or "holy," often used to describe revered deities.
• Thần thoại: This means "mythology," referring to the stories and legends involving gods and supernatural beings.

Different Meanings

• In addition to its primary meanings, "thần" can be used in idiomatic expressions, like "thần kỳ," which means "miraculous" or "extraordinary."

Synonyms

• Thánh: This word also means a saint or holy figure, often used interchangeably with "thần" in religious contexts but can imply a higher moral status.
• Thần linh: This phrase can be translated as "spiritual beings" or "divine beings," used in a broader sense to include all kinds of spirits and deities.

Academic

noun

1. deity, genie unsual keenness extraodinary skill