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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing "touch" with 摸 (mō)

    Actions & Events
    Manner & Method

    Structure

    Subject + 摸 + Object

    Explanation

    The verb 摸 (mō) means "to touch" or "to feel with the hand," describing the physical act of using one's hands to explore or handle something. It can imply a gentle, exploratory touch rather than a firm grip. The reduplicated form 摸一摸 softens the action, suggesting "to give something a feel."

    Examples

    • 小孩子喜欢摸小猫的毛。

      Xiǎo háizi xǐhuan mō xiǎo māo de máo.

      Little children like to touch a kitten's fur.

    • 她伸手摸了摸口袋，发现钥匙不见了。

      Tā shēn shǒu mō le mō kǒudài, fāxiàn yàoshi bújiàn le.

      She reached into her pocket and found that the key was missing.

    • 这块布料摸起来特别柔软。

      Zhè kuài bùliào mō qǐlái tèbié róuruǎn.

      This fabric feels especially soft to the touch.

    Expressing "touch" with 摸 (mō) | Chinese Grammar