All of the following pulses have a floating quality EXCEPT?

The correct choice is the knotted pulse (jie mai) because it does not possess a floating quality. The floating quality of a pulse signals that it is felt more prominently at the superficial level and is typically associated with certain patterns in Traditional Chinese Medicine, such as external pathogenic factors.

The hollow pulse (kou mai) is characterized by a superficial and full sensation—much like a drum, suggesting conditions such as blood loss or deficiency. The leather pulse (ge mai) is another type that has a distinct surface quality, often indicating a lack of blood or yin fluids; it feels somewhat tight at the superficial level but has a hollow sensation in the middle, contributing to its classification as a floating pulse. The soggy pulse (ru mai), meanwhile, presents a soft and fine quality at a superficial level, suggesting deficiency—also aligning with the floating property.

In contrast, the knotted pulse is indicative of a more complex condition, often reflecting stagnation or the presence of phlegm and heat, where the pulse may feel slow and irregular rather than floating. This lack of a prominent superficial quality makes it distinct from the other pulses listed, which all exhibit that floating quality typical in their respective clinical presentations.