A machine is a man-made system that transforms energy into useful work.
Word in 30 Seconds
- A device that uses energy to perform work.
- Essential for industrial and domestic efficiency.
- Can refer to both physical tools and complex systems.
常见语境：在工厂环境里，它是生产力的核心，如“数控机床”；在家庭生活中，它指代家用电器，如“洗衣机”、“洗碗机”。此外，在计算机科学领域，它常指代硬件设备或计算机本身（如“机器语言”）。
- 1近义词辨析：与“机械”相比，“机器”侧重于具体的实体设备，而“机械”既可以指设备，也可以指一种僵化、缺乏灵活性的状态；与“装置”相比，“机器”强调动力和功能的执行，而“装置”范围更广，不一定需要动力驱动。
Examples
这台机器坏了，需要修理。
everydayThis machine is broken and needs to be repaired.
该生产线完全由自动化机器控制。
formalThe production line is entirely controlled by automated machines.
别像个机器一样工作，休息一下吧。
informalDon't work like a machine, take a break.
机器翻译在处理复杂语境时仍有局限性。
academicMachine translation still has limitations when dealing with complex contexts.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
机器语言
machine language
机器视觉
machine vision
机器轰鸣
roaring of machines
Often Confused With
Refers to the mechanism or the abstract concept of machinery, whereas '机器' refers to the concrete device itself.
A broader term for any setup or installation, not necessarily powered by an engine or motor.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word '机器' is neutral and commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese. It is essential to pair it with the correct measure word '台' when counting. Avoid using it to describe tools that are purely manual, as '机器' implies an energy-driven component.
Common Mistakes
Beginners often use the wrong measure word, such as '一个机器' instead of '一台机器'. Another mistake is using '机器' to refer to simple hand tools like hammers or screwdrivers, which is incorrect.
Tips
Use the measure word '台'
When counting machines, always use the measure word '台'. This is the standard classifier for mechanical devices.
Avoid confusion with '机械'
Do not use '机械' when you specifically mean a single, countable device. '机械' is often used as a collective noun or an adjective.
Industrialization in China
The term '机器' became widely used during China's rapid industrialization. It represents progress, modernization, and the shift from manual labor to automation.
Word Origin
The character '机' (jī) originally referred to a loom or a trigger, implying motion; '器' (qì) refers to a vessel or tool. Together, they describe a tool capable of movement and function.
Cultural Context
In modern China, the term is synonymous with industrial progress. It is frequently referenced in discussions about the 'Made in China' movement and the transition toward high-tech manufacturing.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'machine' as a 'mechanical (机) container (器)' that holds power to do work. Remember the measure word '台' by picturing a heavy machine sitting on a 'platform' (台).
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions机器是一个大类，电器是机器的一种。电器特指那些主要依靠电力工作的机器，而机器还包括内燃机、蒸汽机等其他动力源。
可以用“机器般”来形容，表示某人像机器一样精准、不知疲倦，但也可能暗示缺乏感情或创造力。
中文名词没有词形变化，复数通过添加量词或数量词表示，如“几台机器”或“很多机器”。
在口语中，特别是维修或买卖手机时，人们常把手机称为“机器”，例如“这台机器的屏幕坏了”。
Test Yourself
工厂里有五___机器正在运行。
机器作为大型设备，量词通常使用“台”。
当机器出现故障时，我们说它___。
机器没有生命，因此用“坏了”来表示故障。
操作 / 机器 / 必须 / 安全 / 。
这是一个标准的祈使句，强调操作的安全性。
Score: /3
Summary
A machine is a man-made system that transforms energy into useful work.
- A device that uses energy to perform work.
- Essential for industrial and domestic efficiency.
- Can refer to both physical tools and complex systems.
Use the measure word '台'
When counting machines, always use the measure word '台'. This is the standard classifier for mechanical devices.
Avoid confusion with '机械'
Do not use '机械' when you specifically mean a single, countable device. '机械' is often used as a collective noun or an adjective.
Industrialization in China
The term '机器' became widely used during China's rapid industrialization. It represents progress, modernization, and the shift from manual labor to automation.
Examples
4 of 4这台机器坏了，需要修理。
This machine is broken and needs to be repaired.
该生产线完全由自动化机器控制。
The production line is entirely controlled by automated machines.
别像个机器一样工作，休息一下吧。
Don't work like a machine, take a break.
机器翻译在处理复杂语境时仍有局限性。
Machine translation still has limitations when dealing with complex contexts.
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