一模一样

• Pinyin: yī mú yī yàng
• Hanzi breakdown: 一 = one; 模 = 木 (wood) + 莫, meaning mold/model; 样 = 木 (wood) + 羊, meaning appearance

Meaning

Exactly the same; identical. Emphasizing complete similarity without any difference.

A reduplicated phrase for emphasis. Used for appearance, behavior, or situations. Often used for twins, copies, or imitations. Common pattern: A和B一模一样 (A and B are exactly the same). Note: 模 is pronounced mú here, not mó.

Examples

1. 这对双胞胎长得一模一样。 These twins look exactly alike.
2. 这两份文件的内容一模一样。 The contents of these two documents are exactly the same.
3. 他说话的语气跟他爸爸一模一样。 The way he speaks is exactly like his father.

Usage Guide

Context: comparisons, descriptions, everyday

Tone: emphatic

Do Say

• 他们俩长得一模一样。(The two of them look exactly alike.)
• 这个和原版一模一样。(This is exactly the same as the original.)

Don't Say

• 很一模一样 — 一模一样已经是最高程度，不能加'很'

Origin & History

Reduplicated structure 一X一X for emphasis. 模 (mold, model) + 样 (appearance, manner) both relate to form/appearance.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal