Reduplication of Verbs (AA, A一A) - Indicating short duration, attempt, softness

Pattern

• Monosyllabic verbs: AA (看看) or A一A (看一看)
• Disyllabic verbs: ABAB (休息休息)

Usage

• Reduplicate the verb in the form of AA or A一A to indicate that the action takes place in a short time, in small quantities, and has a tone of trial, gentleness, and politeness.

Examples

1. 1

   我看看你的新手机。

   Wǒ kànkan nǐ de xīn shǒujī.

   Let me have a look at your new phone.

2. 2

   让我想想再回答。

   Ràng wǒ xiǎngxiang zài huídá.

   Let me think about it before answering.