địa chi

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The Vietnamese word "địa chi" translates to "earthly branch" in English. It is a concept from the traditional Vietnamese lunar calendar and Chinese astrology that is used to represent time and space, particularly in relation to the 12-year cycle of the zodiac.

Basic Explanation:

"Địa chi" refers to one of the twelve branches in the sexagenary cycle (60-year cycle), which combines the ten "thiên can" (heavenly stems) with the twelve "địa chi" (earthly branches). Each "địa chi" is associated with an animal of the zodiac, such as Rat, Ox, Tiger, etc.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "địa chi" when discussing astrology, horoscopes, or traditional Vietnamese culture.
• It is also used in contexts related to timekeeping, especially when talking about years, months, or days in the lunar calendar.

Example:

• "Năm Tý là năm của địa chi con Chuột." (The Year of the Rat is the year of the earthly branch of the Rat.)

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "địa chi" can also refer to one's astrological sign or fortune based on their birth year. This is often discussed in relation to personal characteristics or destiny.

Word Variants:

• "Thiên can" (heavenly stem): This works together with "địa chi" to form the full cycle. For example, "Canh Tý" combines a heavenly stem with an earthly branch.
• "Lịch âm" (lunar calendar): "Địa chi" is an important aspect of the lunar calendar's structure.

Different Meanings:

In addition to its use in astrology and calendars, "địa chi" does not have many other meanings but is sometimes used metaphorically to refer to one's roots or heritage in a spiritual sense.

Synonyms:

While "địa chi" does not have direct synonyms, it can be associated with: - "Chi" (branch) in general contexts. - "Can chi" which refers to the combined system of heavenly stems and earthly branches.

Academic

1. Earthly Branch