器械

きかい

instrument

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word "器械" (qìxiè) refers broadly to devices, instruments, or machinery, often mechanical or technical in nature. It is commonly used to describe gym equipment, medical instruments, or industrial machinery.

Common Contexts

  • In fitness, "器械" usually means exercise machines like treadmills or weight machines.
  • In medical settings, it refers to specialized medical devices.
  • In industrial or manufacturing contexts, it denotes mechanical equipment or production machinery.

Collocations and Patterns

These collocations highlight the typical fields where "器械" is used.

Usage Notes

"器械" is a formal term and often appears in professional or technical contexts. It is more specific than the general word "设备" (equipment) and emphasizes mechanical or technical devices. Avoid confusing it with "机械" (jīxiè), which focuses more on machines and mechanical engineering. "器械" can include smaller instruments as well as larger machines.

Character Insights

  • means "device" or "tool," emphasizing the functional aspect.
  • means "machine" or "mechanical device," highlighting the mechanical nature.

Together, they form a compound that conveys mechanical or technical instruments or devices.

Example Sentences

The gym has various equipment for members to use.

This hospital is equipped with advanced medical instruments.

The factory's production machinery requires regular maintenance.