A tool is any object or method used to help you achieve a specific goal.
Word in 30 Seconds
- An object used to perform a specific task.
- Can refer to physical items or abstract methods.
- Essential for increasing productivity and efficiency.
使用模式：在中文里，“工具”既可以作为可数名词使用（如“一把工具”），也可以作为抽象概念（如“学习工具”）。它常与动词搭配，例如“使用工具”、“制造工具”、“开发工具”。
- 1常见语境：在日常生活中，它常指修理或烹饪用的器具（如螺丝刀、菜刀）。在职场和学术语境中，它指软件、平台或分析模型（如“统计工具”、“生产力工具”）。此外，它还可以引申为达成目的的手段，例如“语言是沟通的工具”。
Examples
这把锤子是很实用的工具。
everydayThis hammer is a very practical tool.
我们需要评估该软件作为分析工具的有效性。
formalWe need to evaluate the effectiveness of this software as an analytical tool.
手机已经成了现代人离不开的工具。
informalMobile phones have become an essential tool for modern people.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
工欲善其事，必先利其器
A workman must sharpen his tools if he is to do his work well.
工具箱
toolbox
Often Confused With
Refers specifically to sports or musical equipment. It is more specialized than the general term 'tool'.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word '工具' is neutral and commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese. It can be applied to both literal physical objects and figurative concepts. Ensure the context clearly defines the purpose of the tool.
Common Mistakes
Beginners sometimes use '工具' for objects that are strictly decorative or for furniture. Remember that a tool must have a functional purpose. Avoid using it for things like clothes or food.
Tips
Focus on the purpose
Always think about the 'why' behind the object. If it helps you do something, it is likely a tool.
Don't confuse with toys
Tools are for work and tasks. Toys are for play. Using a tool as a toy can be dangerous.
Tools in Chinese culture
The concept of '工欲善其事，必先利其器' (A craftsman must sharpen his tools to do his work well) shows the high value placed on tools in Chinese tradition.
Word Origin
The character '工' originally depicted an instrument used for measurement or construction in ancient times. '具' represents the preparation of items, combining to mean objects used for work.
Cultural Context
In Chinese history, the development of agricultural tools like the plow was central to the success of civilization. The phrase '利其器' remains a popular idiom for success.
Memory Tip
Think of the characters: '工' (work) + '具' (possess/utensil). It is literally a 'work-utensil'.
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions不只指实物。它也可以指抽象的概念，比如“语言是交流的工具”或“互联网是获取信息的工具”。
“工具”的主要目的是为了生产、创造或方便生活。而“武器”的主要目的是为了攻击、防御或造成伤害。
在现代中文口语中，有时会听到“工具化”这个词，表示将某人或某事当成达成目的的手段，但“工具”本身在标准语法中主要作为名词使用。
Test Yourself
为了修好这把椅子，我需要一套合适的___。
修理东西需要的是工具，其他选项与语境不符。
Score: /1
Summary
A tool is any object or method used to help you achieve a specific goal.
- An object used to perform a specific task.
- Can refer to physical items or abstract methods.
- Essential for increasing productivity and efficiency.
Focus on the purpose
Always think about the 'why' behind the object. If it helps you do something, it is likely a tool.
Don't confuse with toys
Tools are for work and tasks. Toys are for play. Using a tool as a toy can be dangerous.
Tools in Chinese culture
The concept of '工欲善其事，必先利其器' (A craftsman must sharpen his tools to do his work well) shows the high value placed on tools in Chinese tradition.
Examples
3 of 3这把锤子是很实用的工具。
This hammer is a very practical tool.
我们需要评估该软件作为分析工具的有效性。
We need to evaluate the effectiveness of this software as an analytical tool.
手机已经成了现代人离不开的工具。
Mobile phones have become an essential tool for modern people.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
More science words
吸收
A1To absorb; to take in.
海拔
B1The height of an object or place above sea level.
属性
B1A quality or feature that is typical of or belongs to something or someone.
生物
B1Any living thing, or the study of living organisms. Basic term for IELTS biology-related reading passages.
模糊
A1Blurry; vague; indistinct.
呼吸
A1To breathe; respiration.
燃烧
A1To burn; combustion.
计算
A1To calculate; to compute; to determine a value mathematically.
推算
B1To calculate, estimate, or figure out something using data, logic, or mathematical methods. It implies a process of reasoning from known facts to unknown values.
校准
B1To calibrate, adjust, or check for accuracy against a standard. It is used for instruments, data, or plans.
