Vietnamese · Family & People
chị gái
Older sister
Beginnernoun
Definition
An older female sibling.
Example
Chị gái tôi sống ở Huế.
My older sister lives in Hue.
Etymology
'Chị gái' consists of 'chị', meaning older sister, and 'gái', meaning girl; both originated from Proto-Austroasiatic roots, signifying family roles. The term reflects cultural expectations surrounding elder siblings in Vietnamese society.
How & Where It’s Used
'Chị gái' is primarily used in informal settings among family and friends and is understood universally in Vietnam. In more formal settings, the word 'nữ' may illustrate a more respectful context.