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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to traffic' with 贩卖 (fànmài)

    Actions & Events
    Negation

    Structure

    被 + 贩卖 / 贩卖 + Object (人口/毒品)

    Explanation

    The verb 贩卖 (fànmài) means 'to traffic' or 'to sell illicitly.' It carries a strong negative connotation and is used specifically for illegal or unethical selling, such as human trafficking or drug dealing. It is more severe than 卖 (to sell) and implies criminal activity.

    Examples

    • 警方成功破获了一起贩卖毒品的大案。

      jǐngfāng chénggōng pòhuò le yī qǐ fànmài dúpǐn de dà àn.

      The police successfully cracked a major drug trafficking case.

    • 贩卖人口是严重的刑事犯罪。

      fànmài rénkǒu shì yánzhòng de xíngshì fànzuì.

      Human trafficking is a serious criminal offense.

    • 贩卖个人信息的行为必须受到法律制裁。

      Fànmài gèrén xìnxī de xíngwéi bìxū shòudào fǎlǜ zhìcái.

      The act of selling personal information must be subject to legal sanctions.

    Often Confused With

    Expressing 'to traffic' with 贩卖 (fànmài) | Chinese Grammar