ở đợ

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The Vietnamese word "ở đợ" refers to the concept of being a servant or a helper, often in a context where someone works for another person, typically in a household setting. It has an older or more traditional connotation, as it relates to past practices of servitude or domestic work.

Basic Explanation

• Meaning: The term "ở đợ" is used to describe someone who serves or works for others, often in exchange for food and shelter rather than a regular salary. This term is considered somewhat outdated and is not commonly used in modern contexts.

Usage Instructions

• "Ở đợ" is often used to refer to someone who lives in someone else's house and helps with chores or daily tasks. It can imply a level of dependency on the host family or individual.

Example

• Sentence: "Cô ấy làm ở đợ cho một gia đình ở thành phố."
  • Translation: "She works as a servant for a family in the city."

Advanced Usage

• While "ở đợ" generally refers to a servant or helper, it can be used in a more metaphorical sense to describe someone who is in a position of servitude or dependency in various situations, such as within a workplace or community context.

Word Variants

• There are no direct variants of "ở đợ," but related terms might include:
  • "người ở": This means "the person who stays" and can sometimes be used interchangeably in certain contexts.
  • "người giúp việc": This translates to "housekeeper" or "domestic worker," a more modern and less pejorative term.

Different Meanings

• In some contexts, "ở đợ" can carry a negative connotation, implying a lack of freedom or personal agency. It's important to be sensitive when using this term as it may remind some individuals of historical practices of servitude.

Synonyms

• "Người hầu": This means "servant" or "attendant."
• "Người giúp việc": As mentioned, this means "housekeeper" or "domestic helper" and is a more acceptable and modern term.

Conclusion

Understanding the term "ở đợ" offers insight into traditional Vietnamese society and its views on servitude.

Academic

1. (cũ) Serve, be a servant