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tool

/ˈtuːl/ American
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  • n. 工具
  • n. 手段
  • v. 加工
Definition
  • n. an instrument or machine used to do a particular job
  • n. a thing or method used to help achieve something
  • v. to shape or make something using tools
Example
A hammer is a basic tool found in most households.
锤子是大多数家庭都有的基本工具。
Word mapTools
Word familytool-

Synonyms & Differences 近义词辨析

Compared meaning: a tool or device used to do a job (noun).

比较义项:用于完成某项工作的工具/器具(名词)。

  • tool 本词

    Tool is the everyday, general word for a simple device, often hand-held, used for practical physical work like hammering, cutting or repairing.

    tool是日常通用词,指用于体力劳动(如锤打、切割、维修)的简单器具,通常可用手操作。

    You need the right tool to fix a leaky faucet.

    你需要合适的工具来修理漏水的水龙头。

  • instrument

    Instrument sounds more formal or technical, suggesting a device that requires skill or precision, often used in professional, scientific or medical settings.

    instrument语气更正式、更专业,暗示需要技巧或精密操作的器具,常用于专业、科学或医疗语境。

    The doctor used a delicate instrument to examine her eyes.

    医生用一个精密的器械检查她的眼睛。

Both mean a device used to do a job, but the tone differs. Tool is the everyday word for a simple, often hand-held device used for practical work like hammering or cutting. Instrument sounds more formal, suggesting a device needing skill, used in professional settings.

这两个词在“工具、器具”这一义项上意思很接近,但语体和使用场合不同:tool更口语化、更具体,instrument更正式、更强调精密或专业。这里不比较instrument的其他义项,如“乐器”或“测量仪器”。