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March 24, 2026
工具gōngjù(gong1ju4)
The term '工具' (gōngjù) refers to a tool or instrument used to perform a specific task or function. It can be physical objects like hammers or screwdrivers, as well as abstract means or methods to achieve goals, such as strategies or techniques. In everyday conversation, it often denotes practical tools in various fields, including construction, cooking, and technology.
Frequency#2330DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of tools extends beyond physical objects to include educational methods and strategies for personal development. The emphasis on practical skills and resourcefulness reflects the value placed on hard work and self-sufficiency.
Memory Tip
Imagine a giant '工' (gōng) worker using a '具' (jù) tool to build something impressive. The '工' represents the worker's effort, while '具' signifies the essential tool needed for the task. Together, they remind you that tools are the means through which work gets done.
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AI Study Notes for 工具
Quick Contrast
工具 (gōngjù) vs 器具 (qìjù) — use '工具' for tools used in practical tasks, while '器具' refers more to equipment or apparatus, often in specialized contexts.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a giant '工' (gōng) worker using a '具' (jù) tool to build something impressive. The '工' represents the worker's effort, while '具' signifies the essential tool needed for the task. Together, they remind you that tools are the means through which work gets done.
Usage Notes
Be careful to differentiate '工具' from similar terms like '设备' (shèbèi), which usually refers to equipment. '工具' is more informal and commonly used for hands-on tasks. Additionally, ensure to use the correct tones: 'gōng' (工) as the first tone and 'jù' (具) as the fourth tone.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 5 word, '工具' connects well with other vocabulary related to work and tools, such as '设备' (shèbèi - equipment) and '材料' (cáiliào - materials). Focus on using '工具' in sentences to describe tasks, enhancing your practical vocabulary.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of tools extends beyond physical objects to include educational methods and strategies for personal development. The emphasis on practical skills and resourcefulness reflects the value placed on hard work and self-sufficiency.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '工具' with '手段' (shǒuduàn), which refers to means or methods but is more abstract. For example, saying '这个是我的工具' (Zhège shì wǒ de gōngjù - This is my means) would be incorrect; use '工具' only for physical tools.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 工具
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Grammar Patterns of 工具
工具 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 4 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
gōng jù yāo dài jiě fàng le shuāng shǒu， ， huán jiǎn shǎo le chuí zǐ diào luò de fēng。
Toolbelts free both hands and lessen the risk of dropping hammers.
Cultural Notes for 工具
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of tools extends beyond physical objects to include educational methods and strategies for personal development. The emphasis on practical skills and resourcefulness reflects the value placed on hard work and self-sufficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions about 工具
'工具' can indeed refer to methods or strategies, such as '学习工具' (xuéxí gōngjù - learning tools) in educational contexts.
'工具' can be synonymous with '器具' (qìjù), although '器具' often implies more specialized instruments.
You might say, '这个工具很有用' (Zhège gōngjù hěn yǒuyòng - This tool is very useful).
