pha lê
[faː˧˧ le˧˧]
The English word "crystal" is translated into Vietnamese as pha lê.
pha lê is a noun used to refer to the mineral crystal.
Meaning: mineral (noun)
Did you know?
- The syllable lê in pha lê is a Sino-Vietnamese word that also means 'pear' when used on its own.
- In Vietnamese poetry and song lyrics, pha lê is often used as a metaphor for something fragile, pure and transparent.
- Vietnamese uses pha lê not only for minerals but frequently to describe high-end glassware and luxury chandeliers.
Examples in context
- Chào, tôi muốn xem các loại pha lê có sẵn ở đâyHello, I would like to see the available crystals here.
- Chiếc vòng cổ pha lê của bạn thật tuyệt!Your crystal necklace is gorgeous!
- Viên pha lê này rất đẹp.This crystal is very beautiful.
- Cô ấy thích sưu tầm pha lê.She likes collecting crystals.
- Ánh sáng chiếu qua khối pha lê.The light shines through the crystal block.
Example conversation
Tuấn and Hương are looking at a gift in a shop.
- TuấnChiếc vòng này làm từ pha lê sao?Is this bracelet made of crystal?
- HươngĐúng vậy, nó là pha lê thật đấy.That's right, it is real crystal.
- TuấnNó trông thật lấp lánh.It looks so sparkly.
- HươngBạn có muốn mua nó không?Do you want to buy it?
Sources
- Wiktionary, “crystal” translations and entries pha lê, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lê, pha, pha lê, CC BY-SA 4.0.
