First Lessons in Maori
§ 63
§ 63.
Doubling the di-syllabic root of a verb gives it a frequentative force. Doubling the first syllable only often gives intensity; but sometimes it denotes reciprocal action.
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Kimo, wink the eyes.
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Kimokimo, wink frequently.
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Kikimo, keep the eyes firmly closed.
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Patu, strike. Papatu. strike against one another: clash.