Definitions

(noun) tool; device; equipment; instrument
(adjective) concrete; definite; specific
(verb) to possess; to have

Etymology

Depicts two hands () handling a cooking pot ().

About

Originating from early depictions of a vessel or container used in ceremonial contexts, the character "具" initially conveyed the idea of preparation or provision, with its structural components suggesting an arrangement of items. The meaning evolved from the specific act of preparing offerings to a general sense of possessing the necessary means, thereby encompassing tools and implements. This semantic broadening enabled "具" to serve both as a noun for instruments and as a verb indicating availability or existence, a duality preserved in classical literature and contemporary language use. While its graphical form has seen minor stylistic adjustments, the core elements representing collection and readiness have remained identifiable throughout its history.

Etymology Hide

Oracle etymology image
Oracle (~1250-1000 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Late Shang dynasty (~1100 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Early Western Zhou (~1000 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Mid Western Zhou (~900 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Late Western Zhou (~800 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Late Western Zhou (~800 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Spring and Autumn (771-476 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Chu (Warring States: 475-221 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

很好玩。

Wánjù hěn hǎowán.

Toys are very fun.

很漂亮。

Jiājù hěn piàoliang.

The furniture is very beautiful.

在箱子里。

Gōngjù zài xiāngzi lǐ.

The tools are in the box.

有能力。

Tā jùyǒu nénglì.

He has the ability.

我们需要更多工

Wǒmen xūyào gèng duō gōngjù.

We need more tools.

体内容是什么?

Jùtǐ nèiróng shì shénme?

What is the specific content?

备所有条件。

Tā jùbèi suǒyǒu tiáojiàn.

He meets all the conditions.

这个仪器有多种功能。

Zhège yíqì jùyǒu duō zhǒng gōngnéng.

This instrument has multiple functions.