模型

• Pinyin: mó xíng
• Hanzi breakdown: 模 = 木 (wood) + 莫 (phonetic); 型 = 刑 (mould) + 土 (earth) — a form pressed into shape

Meaning

Model; mould; a miniature representation or prototype of something.

Refers to a scaled-down or schematic representation of a real object, used for display, study, or design. Common in contexts like model aeroplanes (飞机模型), architectural models, and mathematical models. Unlike 模特儿 which refers to a person, 模型 refers to physical or conceptual representations.

Examples

1. 弟弟最喜欢拼装各种飞机模型。 My little brother loves assembling all kinds of aeroplane models.
2. 老师用一个地球模型给我们上课。 The teacher used a globe model to teach our class.
3. 这座大楼的模型看起来非常漂亮。 The model of this building looks very beautiful.

Usage Guide

Context: education, hobbies, science

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这个模型做得真精细。(This model is really finely made.)
• 我小时候经常做手工模型。(I used to make handmade models when I was little.)

Don't Say

• 把'模型'和'模特儿'弄混 (Don't confuse 模型 with 模特儿 — 模型 is a physical or abstract replica, while 模特儿 is a person who models)

Origin & History

A compound of 模 (mould/pattern) and 型 (type/shape) — a shaped pattern or representation.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal