kho báu
[xɔ˧˧ ʔɓaw˧˦]
The English word treasure translates to Vietnamese as kho báu. Wiktionary also lists châu báu.
Meaning: collection of valuable things (noun)
Ways to say it
| Vietnamese | IPA |
|---|---|
| kho báu | [xɔ˧˧ ʔɓaw˧˦] (Hà Nội, narrow) [kʰɔ˧˧ ʔɓaw˨˩˦] (Huế, narrow) |
| châu báu | [t͡ɕəw˧˧ ʔɓaw˧˦] (Hà Nội, narrow) [t͡ɕəw˧˧ ʔɓaw˨˩˦] (Huế, narrow) |
As a noun, Vietnamese uses different words depending on whether you are describing a physical hoard or a collection of precious items. When using treasure as a verb meaning to value something highly, such as a person or a memory, use trân trọng.
What does it mean word for word?
The term kho báu is composed of kho, which means warehouse or storehouse and báu, meaning a precious or valuable thing.
Which one should you use?
kho báu is the standard term for a physical hoard of treasure, such as a hidden cache or a pirate's treasure. In contrast, châu báu specifically emphasizes the presence of jewels, gems and highly ornate precious items, often used in a more literary or descriptive sense.
Related words
Did you know?
- In Vietnamese folk tales, the concept of a kho báu is often linked to the 'treasure of the earth' or hidden spirits. This differs from Western pirate lore by focusing on supernatural or ancestral guardianship.
- Vietnamese uses the word trân trọng to describe treasuring a person or a memory, which literally translates to 'respectfully valuing'. This reflects a cultural emphasis on respect and reverence rather than just emotional affection.
- The word châu in châu báu is a homonym with several meanings, including 'pearl' 珠, 'continent' 洲, and 'circle' 週. Context is the only way to tell which one is being used.
Examples in context
- bản đồ kho báuA treasure mapThis example shows how to use the phrase kho báu in the context of a map.
- Họ đã tìm thấy một kho báu lớn.They found a large treasure.
- Chiếc rương này chứa đầy kho báu.This chest is full of treasure.
Example conversation
Two friends are watching an adventure movie together.
- TuấnNhân vật chính đang tìm kiếm kho báu.The main character is looking for the treasure.
- ChiAnh ấy trông thật dũng cảm.He looks very brave.
- TuấnLiệu anh ấy có tìm thấy kho báu không?Will he find the treasure?
- ChiTôi hy vọng là có.I hope so.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “treasure” translations and entries kho báu, châu báu, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries báu, châu, châu báu, kho, kho báu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
