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A1 noun #1,000 am häufigsten 8 Min. Lesezeit

工具

gongju Top 1,000

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Erklärung 工具 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn 工具 (gōngjù) as a simple noun meaning 'tool.' You will mostly use it to talk about everyday objects like pens, hammers, or simple items you use to fix things. At this stage, focus on the basic sentence structure: “这是我的工具。” (This is my tool.) or “我需要一个工具。” (I need a tool.) You don't need to worry about complex abstract meanings yet. Just remember that it is a general word for things that help you do work. It is very useful when you are in a shop or trying to describe what you are doing with your hands. You might also see it in the context of 交通工具 (means of transport) like buses and cars, which is a very common A1 topic. Try to associate the word with the physical action of 'working' (工) and 'possessing' an item (具).

At the A2 level, you can start expanding your use of 工具 (gōngjù) to include more specific categories. You should learn common phrases like 修理工具 (repair tools) and 清洁工具 (cleaning tools). You will also begin to use the verb 用 (yòng) more frequently with this word: “我用这个工具修理电脑。” (I use this tool to fix the computer.) You should also become familiar with the measure word 套 (tào) for a set of tools, as in “一套工具” (a set of tools). This level is about moving from simple identification to describing the *purpose* of the tools you are using. You might also encounter it in the context of digital life, like 搜索工具 (search tools) on the internet.

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By the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 工具 (gōngjù) in both physical and abstract contexts. You will hear it used to describe software, apps, and learning methods. For example, “手机是一个非常有用的学习工具。” (The phone is a very useful learning tool.) You should also start to distinguish 工具 from similar words like 设备 (shèbèi) and 器具 (qìjù). At this stage, you can use the word to talk about social and professional efficiency. You might also encounter the slang 工具人 (gōngjù rén) in casual conversations or on social media, and you should understand its connotation of being 'used' by someone else. Your sentences should become more complex, using patterns like “...是...的工具” to define the role of an object or concept.

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At the B2 level, you should use 工具 (gōngjù) to discuss more complex topics like economics, politics, and technology. You will encounter terms like 生产工具 (tools of production) or 法律工具 (legal tools). You should be able to discuss the pros and cons of different tools in a professional setting. For instance, “我们需要选择最合适的分析工具来处理这些数据。” (We need to choose the most suitable analysis tools to process this data.) You should also be aware of the more formal verb 使用 (shǐyòng) and use it in writing. At this level, you are expected to understand the nuance of 工具 as a 'means to an end' in philosophical or strategic discussions. You can also use it to describe language itself as a tool for cultural exchange.

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At the C1 level, your understanding of 工具 (gōngjù) should be nuanced and sophisticated. You will use it in academic and professional writing to describe methodologies, frameworks, and instruments of policy. You should be able to analyze how 工具 is used in literature or political discourse to objectify or empower individuals. For example, you might discuss how certain technologies are used as “权力的工具” (tools of power). You should also be able to use the word in idiomatic or highly formal contexts, such as “把...当作工具” (to treat ... as a tool). Your vocabulary should also include synonyms like 手段 (shǒuduàn) and 媒介 (méijiè), and you should know exactly when to use 工具 instead of them to convey the right level of pragmatism or detachment.

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At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of 工具 (gōngjù) and can use it with native-like precision. You understand its deepest philosophical implications—how tools define humanity and how the 'instrumentalization' of people or nature is discussed in high-level intellectual discourse. You can use the word in complex metaphors and understand its role in historical contexts, such as the evolution of 生产工具 during the Industrial Revolution. You are also comfortable with its use in legal and technical jargon, such as 衍生金融工具 (derivative financial instruments). Your usage is effortless, whether you are making a joke about being a 工具人 or writing a thesis on the 工具性 (instrumentality) of modern education systems.

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工具 in 30 Sekunden

工具 (gōngjù) primarily means 'tool' or 'instrument,' referring to physical items like hammers or screwdrivers used for manual labor or repairs.
It extends to digital contexts, meaning 'software' or 'apps' that facilitate tasks like translation, searching, or data analysis.
Metaphorically, it describes abstract means or methods used to achieve an end, such as language being a tool for communication.
In modern slang, '工具人' (tool person) refers to someone exploited for their utility in a one-sided relationship.

The Chinese word 工具 (gōngjù) is a foundational noun that every learner must master early in their journey. At its most basic level, it refers to a physical object used to perform a specific task, such as a hammer, a screwdriver, or a wrench. However, its utility in the Chinese language extends far beyond the toolbox. In modern contexts, it is frequently used to describe digital applications, software, and even abstract methodologies or people used for a specific purpose.

Physical Implements: In a workshop or home setting, 工具 refers to the tangible items you hold in your hand. If you are fixing a bicycle or hanging a picture frame, you are using 工具. It is a collective noun often paired with the measure word 件 (jiàn) or 套 (tào) for a set.
Digital and Abstract Tools: In the age of technology, your smartphone is a 工具 for communication. A translation app is a 学习工具 (learning tool). When discussing business strategies, one might refer to a specific analysis method as a 管理工具 (management tool).

木匠需要很多不同的工具来做家具。(Mùjiàng xūyào hěnduō bùtóng de gōngjù lái zuò jiājù.)

Example: A carpenter needs many different tools to make furniture.

The word is composed of two characters: 工 (gōng), meaning work or labor, and 具 (jù), meaning tool, device, or to possess. Together, they literally mean 'the things possessed for work.' This etymological root helps explain why the word is so versatile; anything that facilitates the completion of 'work'—whether physical or intellectual—can be classified as a 工具.

语言是沟通的工具。(Yǔyán shì gōutōng de gōngjù.)

Example: Language is a tool for communication.

When using this word, it is important to distinguish it from 设备 (shèbèi), which refers to larger equipment or machinery, and 零件 (língjiàn), which refers to individual parts or components. 工具 is generally something that is used *by* a person to act upon something else. For instance, a computer might be 设备 in an office setting, but a specific software on that computer is a 工具 for the designer.

Common Pairings: You will often see 工具 modified by its purpose: 交通工具 (jiāotōng gōngjù - means of transport), 搜索工具 (sōusuǒ gōngjù - search tool), and 生产工具 (shēngchǎn gōngjù - tools of production).

Using 工具 (gōngjù) correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a noun and the verbs that typically accompany it. The most common verb used with 工具 is 用 (yòng) or the more formal 使用 (shǐyòng), both meaning 'to use.'

他在用工具修理他的自行车。(Tā zài yòng gōngjù xiūlǐ tā de zìxíngchē.)

Example: He is using tools to repair his bicycle.

When specifying the *type* of tool, the specific name usually precedes 工具. For example, 清洁工具 (qīngjié gōngjù) means cleaning tools, and 书写工具 (shūxiě gōngjù) means writing instruments. This structure is very productive in Chinese.

The 'Means of' Pattern: One of the most frequent uses is in the phrase 交通工具 (jiāotōng gōngjù). In English, we say 'means of transport,' but in Chinese, we say 'traffic tool.'
Example: 汽车是现代社会重要的交通工具。 (Cars are an important means of transport in modern society.)

In terms of measure words, 个 (gè) is the general-purpose measure word for a single tool. However, if you are referring to a set or a kit, you should use 套 (tào). If you are referring to a specific item like a piece of equipment, 件 (jiàn) is also appropriate.

我买了一套新的修理工具。(Wǒ mǎile yí tào xīn de xiūlǐ gōngjù.)

Example: I bought a new set of repair tools.

In abstract or metaphorical sentences, 工具 often appears as a complement or a predicate. For instance, when describing a person's role in a project: 他只是一个执行任务的工具。 (He is just a tool for executing tasks.) This highlights the objectification of the subject.

Sentence Structure: Verb + 工具 + 来 + Action: This is a very common pattern: 使用工具来[做某事].
Example: 科学家使用先进的工具来观察细胞。 (Scientists use advanced tools to observe cells.)

You will encounter 工具 (gōngjù) in a wide variety of daily and professional environments. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word's versatility.

At the Hardware Store (五金店): This is the most literal environment. You might hear a clerk ask, “你需要什么工具？” (What tools do you need?) or see signs for 手动工具 (hand tools) and 电动工具 (power tools).
In the Office and IT World: Software developers and office workers use 工具 to refer to apps and platforms. You might hear, “这个软件是一个非常有用的分析工具。” (This software is a very useful analysis tool.) or “我们需要更好的协作工具。” (We need better collaboration tools.)

互联网是获取信息的强大工具。(Hùliánwǎng shì huòqǔ xìnxī de qiángdà gōngjù.)

Example: The internet is a powerful tool for obtaining information.

In academic settings, teachers often talk about 学习工具 (learning tools) or 思维工具 (thinking tools). For example, a mind map is often described as a 思维工具. This usage emphasizes the cognitive aspect of the word.

On social media, as mentioned before, the slang 工具人 is ubiquitous. You might see a post where someone complains, “我觉得我只是他的工具人。” (I feel like I'm just his tool/utility person.) This is a very common way for young people to express frustration in social dynamics.

In the Kitchen: While 餐具 (cānjù) is used for tableware and 厨具 (chújù) for kitchenware, 工具 can still be used for specific gadgets. For example, 开罐工具 (kāiguàn gōngjù - can opening tool/opener).

While 工具 (gōngjù) is a relatively straightforward word, English speakers often make specific errors when translating directly from English or when choosing between similar Chinese terms.

Confusing 'Tool' with 'Equipment' (设备): In English, we might call a large machine a 'tool' (like a machine tool), but in Chinese, 设备 (shèbèi) is usually more appropriate for large-scale machinery. 工具 usually implies something smaller or more portable.
Incorrect: 工厂里有很多工具。 (if referring to massive assembly lines).
Correct: 工厂里有很多设备。
Using the Wrong Measure Word: Many learners default to 个 (gè) for everything. While acceptable, using 把 (bǎ) for tools with handles (like hammers or screwdrivers) or 套 (tào) for sets makes your Chinese sound much more natural.

请给我那把修理工具。(Qǐng gěi wǒ nà bǎ xiūlǐ gōngjù.)

Correct usage: Using 'bǎ' for a tool with a handle.

Another mistake is overusing 工具 for 'means' or 'methods.' While 工具 can mean 'means,' Chinese often prefers 手段 (shǒuduàn) or 方法 (fāngfǎ) depending on the connotation. 手段 often has a slightly more calculated or even negative tone, while 方法 is neutral and focuses on the 'how-to.'

Finally, learners sometimes forget that 工具 is a collective noun. If you want to talk about a specific tool, it's often better to name the tool itself (e.g., 锤子 chuízi - hammer) rather than just saying 'tool' repeatedly.

Chinese has several words that overlap with 工具 (gōngjù). Choosing the right one depends on the size, function, and formality of the context.

器具 (qìjù) vs. 工具 (gōngjù): 器具 usually refers to containers, utensils, or small appliances, often used in the kitchen or for specific household tasks. 工具 is more about 'doing' or 'fixing' something.
Example: 厨房器具 (kitchen utensils) vs. 修理工具 (repair tools).
设备 (shèbèi) vs. 工具 (gōngjù): 设备 refers to large-scale equipment, machinery, or a complete set of facilities. It is more formal and industrial.
Example: 办公设备 (office equipment like printers and copiers) vs. 书写工具 (writing tools like pens).

实验室里有很多精密的仪器。(Shíyànshì lǐ yǒu hěnduō jīngmì de yíqì.)

Comparison: 'yíqì' is used for scientific instruments.

Another important alternative is 仪器 (yíqì). This word is specifically used for scientific or high-precision instruments, such as those found in a lab or a hospital. You wouldn't call a microscope a 工具 in a formal scientific paper; you would call it an 仪器.

Lastly, 手段 (shǒuduàn) is often used when 'tool' means 'a way to achieve an end.' For example, “教育是改变命运的手段。” (Education is a means/tool to change one's fate.) Here, 工具 could also be used, but 手段 sounds more sophisticated and intentional.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The character '工' is one of the oldest in Chinese and has barely changed its shape in 3,000 years, always representing the concept of 'work' through the image of a tool.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ɡɒŋ dʒuː/

US /ɡɔŋ dʒu/

Equal stress on both syllables, though the first syllable (gōng) is high and level (1st tone), and the second (jù) is falling (4th tone).

Reimt sich auf

中句 (zhōngjù) 冬具 (dōngjù) 松剧 (sōngjù) 功聚 (gōngjù) 空具 (kōngjù) 红剧 (hóngjù) 通剧 (tōngjù) 同具 (tóngjù)

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing 'ju' like 'jew' with a standard English 'u'. In Pinyin, 'ju' is actually 'jü' (the umlaut is dropped), so it should be a rounded 'ee' sound.
Getting the tones wrong: confusing the 1st tone (high flat) with the 3rd tone (dipping).
Mispronouncing 'gong' as 'gang'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 1/5

The characters are simple and common.

Schreiben 2/5

The character '具' has several strokes but is logical.

Sprechen 2/5

Requires mastering the 1st and 4th tones.

Hören 1/5

Very distinct sound, easy to recognize.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

工 (Work) 用 (Use) 个 (Measure word) 这 (This) 那 (That)

Als Nächstes lernen

设备 (Equipment) 修理 (Repair) 机器 (Machine) 零件 (Parts) 手段 (Means)

Fortgeschritten

器械 (Apparatus) 媒介 (Medium) 基础设施 (Infrastructure) 衍生工具 (Derivatives)

Wichtige Grammatik

Measure words for tools

一把锤子 (one hammer), 一套工具 (one set of tools).

Using '用' (yòng) to indicate instrument

我用工具修理电脑。

The '把' (bǎ) construction for tools

请把工具拿过来。

Noun compounding

交通 + 工具 = 交通工具.

Abstract '是' (shì) definition

语言是沟通的工具。

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Beispiele nach Niveau

这是一个好工具。

This is a good tool.

Basic 'Subject + 是 + Noun' structure.

我需要修理工具。

I need repair tools.

Noun used as an object.

你有工具吗？

Do you have tools?

Simple question with '吗'.

这是什么工具？

What tool is this?

Question with '什么'.

我用工具开门。

I use a tool to open the door.

Verb '用' + Noun.

工具在箱子里。

The tools are in the box.

Location sentence with '在'.

他买了很多工具。

He bought many tools.

Using '很多' as a quantifier.

这个工具很重。

This tool is very heavy.

Adjective '重' modifying the noun.

请把工具给我。

Please give me the tool.

Using the '把' construction for disposal.

这是一套新的工具。

This is a new set of tools.

Measure word '套' for sets.

自行车是交通工具。

A bicycle is a means of transport.

Specific compound '交通工具'.

你用什么工具写字？

What tool do you use to write?

Using '用...做...' pattern.

这些工具很有用。

These tools are very useful.

Adjective '有用' (useful).

他在找清洁工具。

He is looking for cleaning tools.

Compound noun '清洁工具'.

这个工具箱太小了。

This toolbox is too small.

Compound noun '工具箱'.

我会用这个工具。

I know how to use this tool.

Modal verb '会' for skill.

手机是现代人的重要工具。

The mobile phone is an important tool for modern people.

Abstract use of '工具'.

我们需要更好的协作工具。

We need better collaboration tools.

Business context.

这个软件是一个翻译工具。

This software is a translation tool.

Digital context.

他觉得他只是个工具人。

He feels like he's just a 'tool person' (being used).

Slang '工具人'.

字典是学习外语的工具。

A dictionary is a tool for learning foreign languages.

Defining a tool's function.

不要把手机当成唯一的工具。

Don't treat the phone as the only tool.

Using '当成' (treat as).

这套工具包含各种扳手。

This tool set includes various wrenches.

Verb '包含' (include).

使用正确的工具可以省力。

Using the right tools can save effort.

Gerund-like use of '使用工具'.

互联网是传播信息的强大工具。

The internet is a powerful tool for spreading information.

Abstract metaphorical use.

这种方法是解决问题的有效工具。

This method is an effective tool for solving problems.

Methodology as a tool.

政府利用税收作为经济工具。

The government uses taxes as an economic tool.

Political/Economic context.

我们需要更新生产工具以提高效率。

We need to update our production tools to improve efficiency.

Industrial context.

语言不仅仅是沟通的工具，也是文化的载体。

Language is not just a tool for communication, but also a carrier of culture.

Philosophical comparison.

这些数据分析工具非常先进。

These data analysis tools are very advanced.

Technical context.

他善于利用身边的各种工具。

He is good at utilizing various tools around him.

Using '善于' (be good at).

法律是维护社会秩序的工具。

Law is a tool for maintaining social order.

Societal context.

该政策被视为宏观调控的重要工具。

This policy is seen as an important tool for macro-control.

Passive construction '被视为'.

他将艺术作为表达政治观点的工具。

He uses art as a tool to express political views.

Using '将...作为...'.

这种软件提供了丰富的开发工具包。

This software provides a rich set of development toolkits (SDKs).

Technical terminology.

我们必须审视这些工具的伦理影响。

We must examine the ethical implications of these tools.

Ethical/Critical context.

货币政策工具的选择至关重要。

The choice of monetary policy tools is crucial.

Formal economic terminology.

他拒绝成为任何人的政治工具。

He refused to become anyone's political tool.

Metaphorical/Personal integrity.

这些工具的普及改变了创作方式。

The popularization of these tools has changed the way of creation.

Discussing societal change.

批判性思维是通往真理的必备工具。

Critical thinking is an essential tool for reaching the truth.

Philosophical abstraction.

工具的演进标志着人类文明的进步。

The evolution of tools marks the progress of human civilization.

Historical/Anthropological context.

在存在主义看来，人并非实现目的的工具。

From an existentialist perspective, humans are not tools for achieving ends.

High-level philosophical discourse.

金融衍生工具的复杂性增加了市场风险。

The complexity of financial derivatives increases market risk.

Specific financial terminology.

他精辟地分析了权力作为统治工具的本质。

He incisively analyzed the essence of power as a tool of governance.

Academic critique.

这种叙事工具在现代小说中被广泛运用。

This narrative tool is widely used in modern novels.

Literary criticism.

技术不应仅仅被视为征服自然的工具。

Technology should not be seen merely as a tool for conquering nature.

Environmental/Philosophical debate.

他的理论为后人提供了有力的分析工具。

His theory provided powerful analytical tools for future generations.

Intellectual legacy.

这种工具性的理性往往忽视了人文关怀。

This instrumental rationality often ignores humanistic care.

Sociological terminology (Instrumental Rationality).

Häufige Kollokationen

交通工具

工具箱

生产工具

学习工具

修理工具

搜索工具

分析工具

沟通工具

电动工具

金融工具

Häufige Phrasen

必备工具

— Essential tool. Something you must have to do a job.

电脑是程序员的必备工具。

辅助工具

— Auxiliary/Support tool. Something that helps but isn't the main tool.

这个软件只是一个辅助工具。

现成工具

— Ready-made tool. Something available to use immediately.

我们可以利用现成的工具。

专用工具

— Specialized tool. A tool for a specific, unique purpose.

修理这种机器需要专用工具。

简陋工具

— Crude/Simple tools. Basic or low-quality implements.

他们用简陋的工具盖了房子。

万能工具

— Universal tool / Swiss army knife. Something that can do many things.

没有所谓的万能工具。

一套工具

— A set of tools. A complete kit.

他送给我一套工具。

各种工具

— Various tools. A variety of implements.

桌子上摆着各种工具。

先进工具

— Advanced tools. High-tech or modern implements.

科学家使用先进工具进行实验。

传统工具

— Traditional tools. Old-fashioned or manual implements.

有些木匠仍然喜欢传统工具。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

工具 vs 设备 (shèbèi)

Equipment/Machinery. Use for larger, fixed items like factory machines or office copiers.

工具 vs 器具 (qìjù)

Utensils/Apparatus. Use for household items or kitchen gadgets.

工具 vs 零件 (língjiàn)

Parts/Components. Tools are used *on* parts to assemble them.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"工欲善其事，必先利其器"

— To do a good job, one must first sharpen one's tools. Preparation is key.

我们要先准备好，工欲善其事，必先利其器嘛。

Literary/Common Proverb

"游刃有余"

— To do something with skill and ease (originally referring to a butcher's knife).

他处理这些问题游刃有余。

Idiomatic

"大器晚成"

— Great talents mature late (using '器' as a metaphor for a vessel/tool).

别担心，你这是大器晚成。

Idiomatic

"投鼠忌器"

— To hesitate to hit a rat for fear of smashing the vase next to it (careful of collateral damage).

我们现在投鼠忌器，不能随便行动。

Idiomatic

"君子不器"

— A gentleman is not a tool (Confucian idea that a noble person is not a specialist/limited).

古人云：君子不器。

Literary

"利器"

— A sharp tool / A powerful weapon (often used metaphorically for a skill).

英语是他找工作的利器。

Neutral

"磨刀不误砍柴工"

— Sharpening the axe will not delay the woodcutting (preparation saves time).

先学习软件用法，磨刀不误砍柴工。

Common Saying

"工具理性"

— Instrumental rationality (sociological term).

现代社会充满了工具理性。

Academic

"等因奉此"

— To follow rules blindly like a tool (archaic bureaucratic slang).

他只会等因奉此，没有创意。

Archaic/Negative

"锦囊妙计"

— A brilliant plan (literally a 'silk bag' containing a tool/plan).

他总是有锦囊妙计。

Literary

Leicht verwechselbar

工具 vs 手段 (shǒuduàn)

Both can mean 'means to an end'.

工具 is more neutral and pragmatic; 手段 can imply a clever or even devious tactic.

他用各种手段达到目的。

工具 vs 仪器 (yíqì)

Both refer to instruments.

仪器 is strictly for high-precision, scientific, or medical devices.

显微镜是一种精密仪器。

工具 vs 设施 (shèshī)

Both relate to things used for a purpose.

设施 refers to infrastructure or facilities (like a gym or a bridge).

这里的体育设施很好。

工具 vs 装备 (zhuāngbèi)

Both mean gear/tools.

装备 is usually a full set of gear for a specific activity like military or sports.

他的登山装备很专业。

工具 vs 文具 (wénjù)

Both end in 'jù'.

文具 is specifically for stationery (pens, rulers, paper).

我去商店买文具。

Satzmuster

这是[Noun]工具。

这是修理工具。

我用工具[Verb]。

我用工具修车。

[Noun]是[Action]的工具。

字典是学习的工具。

利用...作为工具

他利用媒体作为宣传工具。

被视为...的工具

该技术被视为创新的工具。

...的工具性

我们讨论了教育的工具性。

Any

一套[Type]工具

一套清洁工具。

Any

必备的工具

这是必备的工具。

Wortfamilie

Substantive

工具箱 (Toolbox)

工具书 (Reference book)

交通工具 (Means of transport)

工具人 (Tool person/Slang)

Adjektive

工具性的 (Instrumental)

Verwandt

工作 (Work)

具体 (Specific)

具有 (To possess)

家具 (Furniture)

文具 (Stationery)

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So verwendest du es

frequency

Extremely high in both spoken and written Chinese.

Häufige Fehler

Using '个' for a set of tools. → Use '套' (tào).
A 'set' of tools is always '一套工具'. Using '一个' implies just one single tool.
Calling a large factory machine a '工具'. → Use '设备' (shèbèi).
Large machinery is '设备'. '工具' is for things you can usually carry or use directly.
Using '工具' as a verb. → Use '用工具' or '使用工具'.
Chinese nouns cannot be used as verbs like in English ('to tool around').
Confusing '工具' with '玩具'. → 工具 is tool; 玩具 is toy.
They sound similar but '工' (work) vs '玩' (play) makes the difference clear.
Using '工具' for a scientific microscope in a formal paper. → Use '仪器' (yíqì).
Scientific instruments have a more specific term: '仪器'.

Tipps

Learn the 'jù' family

Many words for items end in '具', like 文具 (stationery), 厨具 (kitchenware), and 玩具 (toy). Learning them together helps.

Pair with '使用'

In formal writing, always use '使用工具' instead of '用工具' to sound more educated.

Slang Usage

If someone calls you a '工具人', they are saying you are too helpful to people who don't care about you.

Tone check

Make sure you hear the 4th tone on 'jù'. If it sounds flat, it might be a different word.

Specifics matter

Instead of just saying '工具', try to say '修车的工具' or '画画的工具' to be clearer.

Toolbox Compound

Remember that '工具箱' is a very common compound. You'll see it in apps too (like a 'utilities' folder).

Work + Device

Always remember: 工 (Work) + 具 (Device) = Tool.

Office Context

In an office, '工具' almost always refers to software like Slack, Excel, or Trello.

Measure Words

Use '把' for hammers, '个' for drills, and '套' for the whole box.

Means to an End

When translating 'means' in a philosophical sense, '工具' is a safe and common choice.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Gong' as the sound of a hammer hitting a metal 'Gong' (work), and 'Ju' as 'Jewel' (a precious thing you hold). A tool is a 'Work-Jewel' you use to get things done.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a worker (工) holding a box (具) full of tools.

Word Web

Hammer Screwdriver App Software Bicycle Language Method Instrument

Herausforderung

Try to name five '工具' in your room right now in Chinese. For example: 笔 (bǐ - pen), 手机 (shǒujī - phone), 剪刀 (jiǎndāo - scissors).

Wortherkunft

The word is a combination of '工' (gōng) and '具' (jù). '工' originally depicted a carpenter's square or a tool for making right angles, representing labor and craft. '具' originally depicted two hands holding a vessel or a ritual object, representing the act of providing or possessing necessary items.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The items or vessels required for work or ritual.

Sino-Tibetan (Chinese).

Kultureller Kontext

Avoid calling someone a '工具' directly unless using the slang '工具人' in a casual, self-deprecating, or descriptive way, as it can be dehumanizing.

In English, 'tool' can be a harsh insult. In Chinese, '工具人' is more about being a 'pushover' or 'exploited helper' rather than just being an 'idiot'.

Confucius: 'The gentleman is not a tool' (君子不器). Mao Zedong: Discussing the 'tools of production' in Marxist theory. Modern Pop Song: '工具人' by various C-pop artists exploring one-sided love.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Home Repair

找工具 (Find tools)
工具箱在哪？ (Where is the toolbox?)
借个工具 (Borrow a tool)
收拾工具 (Tidy up tools)

Software/IT

在线工具 (Online tool)
开发工具 (Dev tools)
免费工具 (Free tool)
更新工具 (Update tool)

Transportation

公共交通工具 (Public transport)
主要的交通工具 (Main means of transport)
绿色交通工具 (Green transport)
选择交通工具 (Choose a means of transport)

Education

学习工具 (Learning tool)
有效的工具 (Effective tool)
教学工具 (Teaching tool)
思维工具 (Thinking tool)

Social/Slang

当工具人 (To be a tool person)
被当成工具 (To be treated as a tool)
拒绝当工具人 (Refuse to be a tool person)
只是个工具 (Just a tool)

Gesprächseinstiege

"你家里有修理工具吗？ (Do you have repair tools at home?)"

"你觉得手机是最重要的工具吗？ (Do you think the phone is the most important tool?)"

"你平时用什么工具学习汉语？ (What tools do you usually use to learn Chinese?)"

"哪种交通工具最方便？ (Which means of transport is the most convenient?)"

"你听说过‘工具人’这个词吗？ (Have you heard of the term 'tool person'?)"

Tagebuch-Impulse

描述一个你每天都会使用的重要工具。 (Describe an important tool you use every day.)

如果你去荒岛，你会带哪三件工具？ (If you went to a deserted island, which three tools would you bring?)

谈谈互联网作为一个学习工具的优缺点。 (Talk about the pros and cons of the internet as a learning tool.)

你曾经觉得自己被别人当成‘工具人’吗？ (Have you ever felt like you were being treated as a 'tool person' by others?)

未来的交通工具会是什么样子的？ (What will future means of transport look like?)

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Yes, it is very common to call software or apps '工具' or '工具软件'. For example, a PDF converter is a '工具'.

For a single tool, '个' is common. For a tool with a handle, '把' is used. For a set, '套' is the best choice.

No, it is usually negative. It implies that someone is being used by others for their skills or resources without being truly valued as a friend or partner.

It is '工具箱' (gōngjù xiāng).

Yes, the standard phrase is '交通工具' (jiāotōng gōngjù).

'工具' means tools, while '家具' (jiājù) means furniture. They both share the '具' character which means 'item/device'.

It is neutral and can be used in any context, from a construction site to a scientific paper.

No, it is only a noun. To say 'to use a tool,' you must use the verb '用' or '使用'.

It means 'essential tool' or 'must-have tool'.

'手动工具' (shǒudòng gōngjù) and '电动工具' (diàndòng gōngjù).

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