‘机器’ (jī qì) is a general noun meaning ‘machine’—any device or system that uses power to perform a task, from simple tools like a lever to complex systems like computers or factory equipment. The first character 机 (jī) originally meant ‘mechanism’ or ‘opportunity’, but in compound words it often conveys the idea of mechanical function or ingenuity; the second character 器 (qì) means ‘vessel’ or ‘tool’, and broadly refers to instruments or devices. Together, 机器 emphasizes man-made, functional apparatuses designed for work, automation, or processing.

This word is neutral in register and widely used across technical, industrial, and everyday contexts—e.g., household appliances, transportation, computing, and manufacturing. It’s not used for living things (so never for animals or humans), nor for abstract concepts like ‘system’ unless referring to a physical or mechanized implementation. Unlike English ‘machine’, 机器 rarely carries metaphorical or idiomatic meanings (e.g., no equivalent to ‘political machine’); for such cases, other terms like ‘体系’ or ‘系统’ are preferred.