I'm learning tiếng Việt

truyền thuyết — meaning in English: legend

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for legend
Tím
chân lý
truyền thuyết
tinh tế
Trắng
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Vietnamese for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 'truyền thuyết' in storytelling contexts, particularly when discussing local folklore or historical narratives that have been passed down through generations. It can be heard during cultural festivals, family gatherings, or in educational settings when teaching about Vietnamese heritage.
Synonyms & nuances
'Truyền thuyết' is often compared to 'huyền thoại,' which translates to 'myth.' While both terms refer to traditional narratives, 'truyền thuyết' usually pertains to stories that have a basis in historical events or figures, whereas 'huyền thoại' may involve more fantastical elements. Therefore, use 'truyền thuyết' when discussing legendary stories with a cultural or historical anchor.
Culture
'Truyền thuyết' literally translates to 'transmitted story' in English, illustrating the oral tradition inherent in Vietnamese culture. Legends often serve to convey moral lessons or explain natural phenomena, making them a vital part of Vietnamese identity and collective memory. An example is the legend of 'Bánh Chưng,' which commemorates the sixth king of the Hùng dynasty and highlights the importance of rice in Vietnamese culture.
FAQ
Q.What is the meaning of 'truyền thuyết' in English?
'Truyền thuyết' translates to 'legend' in English, referring to a traditional story that is often historical in nature and passed down through generations.
Q.Can you use 'truyền thuyết' in a sentence?
Yes! For example, 'Câu chuyện về Thánh Gióng là một truyền thuyết nổi tiếng trong văn hóa Việt Nam,' meaning 'The story of Saint Gióng is a famous legend in Vietnamese culture.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'truyền thuyết'?
A common mistake is to confuse 'truyền thuyết' with 'huyền thoại.' Remember, 'truyền thuyết' refers to legends rooted in history, while 'huyền thoại' is more about myths that may include supernatural elements.
Learn vietnamese with Maspeak →
Vietnamese Vocabulary