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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing "squinting" with 眯 (mī)

    Actions & Events
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    眯 + 着 + 眼睛

    Explanation

    The verb 眯 (mī) means "to squint" or "to narrow one's eyes." It is commonly used to describe partially closing the eyes, whether to see more clearly, because of bright light, or as part of a relaxed expression.

    Examples

    • 阳光太强了，她眯着眼睛看远处。

      Yángguāng tài qiáng le, tā mī zhe yǎnjīng kàn yuǎnchù.

      The sunlight was too strong, and she squinted to look into the distance.

    • 爷爷笑的时候总是眯起眼睛，特别可爱。

      Yéye xiào de shíhou zǒngshì mī qǐ yǎnjīng, tèbié kě'ài.

      Grandpa always squints his eyes when he smiles, which is very cute.

    • 他眯着眼想看清路牌上的字。

      Tā mī zhe yǎn xiǎng kàn qīng lùpái shàng de zì.

      He squinted trying to read the words on the road sign.

    Expressing "squinting" with 眯 (mī) | Chinese Grammar