mo2 saak3摸索
Jyutpingmo2 saak3
Yalemó saak
Definition
To feel or grope around with one's hands, or to try to figure something out.
- to feel about or grope with one's hands for an object or a path
- to try to figure out, explore, or search for a direction or solution
neutraldaily actions
How it's used
Beyond the literal sense of using hands to find objects in the dark, this word is frequently used metaphorically for figuring out a new task or process through trial and error. It implies a sense of uncertainty and lack of a clear path forward. It is more formal than just saying 揾, which makes it sound more like a deliberate process of exploration.
Examples
The room is pitch black, I have to feel my way out.
Related words
Common phrases
to grope for direction
to feel one's way along a path
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with 摸, which simply means to touch. 摸索 implies a continuous, searching action, often done when visibility is poor or the object is hidden.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
