Translation guide
The English word "groping" can refer to physically searching with your hands, especially in the dark, or to sexual touching without consent. It can also be used metaphorically for struggling to find an idea or solution. This guide covers these distinct meanings.
To feel around with your hands, often because you cannot see well or are looking for something by touch.
Literally 'hand search'. Used for physically feeling your way around, especially in the dark. Can also be used metaphorically.
I groped my way forward in the dark.
Verb form of 手探り. Used for the action of groping or fumbling with your hands.
He groped in his pocket for his keys.
Means 'to search for' or 'to probe'. Can be used for physically feeling around, but also for investigating or sounding out.
I groped for the wall in the dark.
To fumble or grope around, often with a nuance of aimlessly searching. Can sound slightly old-fashioned or literary.
He groped for the switch in the darkness.
To touch someone in a sexual way without their permission, often in a crowded place.
Refers to the act of groping, especially on public transportation, or the person who does it. Commonly used in signs and warnings.
Groping on trains is a crime.
Formal term for the act of groping. Used in legal or official contexts.
Groping is absolutely unacceptable.
Literally 'to touch someone's body'. A more general phrase that can imply groping when context is clear.
I was groped on the crowded train.
Short for sexual harassment. Can include groping but is a broader term.
To try to think of something or find a solution without clear guidance, like 'groping for an answer'.
Metaphorical use of 手探り. Implies searching for an idea or solution without a clear path.
We are groping for a new business model.
Means 'to grope for' or 'to search for' in an abstract sense, like seeking a solution. Very common in business and formal contexts.
We are groping for a solution to the problem.
Literally 'to put out a feeler'. Used when you are trying to gauge someone's opinion or find out information indirectly.
The English word 'groping' in a sexual context is not directly translated as 手探り. Use 痴漢 or 体を触る instead. 手探り only refers to non-sexual searching with hands.
手探り can be used both physically and metaphorically, while 模索 is almost exclusively metaphorical and formal. For physical groping in the dark, 手探り is best.
職場でのセクハラが問題になった。
Sexual harassment at work became an issue.
A four-character idiom meaning 'groping in the dark'. Used when you have no clues and are trying to figure something out blindly.
We have no clues and are groping in the dark.
I tried to grope for his intentions.