Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'caterpillar' with 毛虫 (máochóng)

    Existence & Possession

    Explanation

    The noun 毛虫 (máochóng) means 'caterpillar,' the larval stage of a butterfly or moth. It is composed of 毛 (hair/fur) and 虫 (insect), literally meaning 'hairy bug,' describing the fuzzy appearance of many caterpillar species. It is commonly used in nature and biology contexts.

    Examples

    • 树叶上有一条绿色的毛虫。

      Shùyè shàng yǒu yī tiáo lǜsè de máochóng.

      There's a green caterpillar on the leaf.

    • 小孩子看到毛虫吓得大叫。

      Xiǎo háizi kàn dào máochóng xià de dà jiào.

      The child screamed in fright when seeing the caterpillar.

    • 毛虫长大以后会变成蝴蝶或者蛾子。

      Máochóng zhǎng dà yǐhòu huì biàn chéng húdié huòzhě ézi.

      When caterpillars grow up, they turn into butterflies or moths.

    Expressing 'caterpillar' with 毛虫 (máochóng) | Chinese Grammar