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“The Power of a Name: From ‘Thù Hận’ to Triumph”

"He's now very successful and often visits my family to thank my father for saving his life, despite his somewhat feminine-sounding name," they said.

Administrator

9 August, 2025

Choosing a name for your child is a significant decision, and it’s essential to avoid names with negative or ambiguous meanings.

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A recent social media post sparked an intriguing discussion among parents and older adults.

The post included a screenshot from a TV screen displaying the name ‘Nguyễn Hận Hoài’ at a clinic, awaiting their turn.

The name ‘Hận Hoài’ translates to ‘resentful and nostalgic’, evoking a sense of negativity and leaving a less-than-pleasant impression. It is easy to imagine the owner of this name encountering awkward situations due to its unusual choice.

In the comments, a user by the name of emThi.. shared a similar real-life story.

“My father used to work for the commune,” she wrote. “A woman once came to register her child’s name as Nguyễn Thù Hân. But my father changed it to Thu Hân, explaining that the machine had made a mistake and couldn’t add the accent mark because it was already red.”

Interestingly, the child whose name was intentionally altered by the commune official has grown up to be very successful.

“That man is now very accomplished,” emThi.. continued. “He often visits my family to thank my father for saving his life, even though the name sounds a bit like a girl’s.”

emThi..’s story garnered nearly 2,000 likes, with many agreeing that “don’t let hatred blind you, affecting a child’s future. A name is very important and will follow a person until they pass away.”

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Indeed, there are numerous similar stories of parents making unfortunate choices when naming their children, leading to difficulties in their lives.

Here are some crucial considerations for parents to avoid such pitfalls:

– Phonetics: Pay attention to the sound and pronunciation of the name. Ensure it is easy to say and pleasant to hear. A harmonious name will boost your child’s confidence in social interactions.

– Avoid Unpleasant Combinations: Be cautious when combining names to avoid creating unpleasant or awkward-sounding full names. Your child’s name should be aesthetically pleasing and clear.

– Family Bonding: Consider names that reflect a connection between generations. Using a variation of your name or that of a family member can help your child understand their family roots and foster a sense of belonging.

– Seek Family Input: Consult with grandparents and other family members. They can offer fresh perspectives and valuable suggestions, ensuring the name aligns with family traditions.

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– Avoid Generational Repetition: Try to avoid naming your child after someone in the family or choosing a name that has become commonplace. Give your child a unique name to stand out.

– Envision Their Future: Think about how the name will impact your child’s life. A suitable name can open doors to opportunities in education, career, and social relationships.

– Cultural Sensitivity: Ensure the name aligns with your cultural norms and traditions. Your child should feel proud and connected to their heritage through their name.