Definitions

(verb) to imitate; to model; to copy
(noun) pattern; template; standard
(noun) pattern; mold; die; matrix

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. represents the meaning and represents the sound.

Semantic: Phonetic:

About

The character "模" is structured with the semantic component "木" denoting wood and the phonetic component "莫" providing its sound, originating as a term for a wooden mold or pattern used in manufacturing processes. Its meaning gradually extended from tangible templates to abstract concepts such as standard, model, or norm, and further to the action of imitating or following such a pattern, thereby encompassing both nominal and verbal uses. The consistent use of "木" in its construction maintains a link to its material origins, while the phonetic element "莫" has endured, with the character's semantic expansion reflecting adaptation to broader linguistic contexts without altering its fundamental form.

Etymology Hide

Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

这个型很贵。

Zhège móxíng hěn guì.

This model is very expensive.

他经常仿明星。

Tā jīngcháng mófǎng míngxīng.

He often imitates celebrities.

照片看起来有点糊。

Zhàopiàn kàn qǐlái yǒudiǎn móhu.

The photo looks a bit blurry.

他是我们班的范生。

Tā shì wǒmen bān de mófànshēng.

He is a model student in our class.

我们需要拟考试环境。

Wǒmen xūyào mónǐ kǎoshì huánjìng.

We need to simulate the exam environment.

这个子是用来做蛋糕的。

Zhège múzi shì yòng lái zuò dàngāo de.

This mold is used to make cakes.

她的样和我记忆中的一样。

Tā de múyàng hé wǒ jìyì zhōng de yīyàng.

Her appearance is the same as in my memory.

通过仿和实践,他逐渐掌握了技巧。

Tōngguò mófǎng hé shíjiàn, tā zhújiàn zhǎngwò le jìqiǎo.

Through imitation and practice, he gradually mastered the skills.