电视机

• Pinyin: diàn shì jī
• Hanzi breakdown: 电视 (television) + 机 (machine) — the television device

Meaning

Television set; TV set. The physical device used for watching television.

Specifically refers to the TV hardware, not the programs. Used when talking about buying, moving, repairing, or describing the physical set. In everyday speech, 电视 is often used instead, but 电视机 is more precise for the device.

Examples

1. 我们买了一台新电视机。 We bought a new TV set.
2. 这台电视机很大。 This TV set is very large.
3. 电视机放在客厅里。 The TV set is placed in the living room.

Usage Guide

Context: household, shopping

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这台电视机多少钱？(How much does this TV set cost?)
• 电视机坏了，要修一下。(The TV set is broken and needs repair.)

Don't Say

• 我每天看电视机 when meaning TV programs (For watching content, say 看电视; 电视机 is the device)

Origin & History

Compound of 电视 (television) and 机 (machine) — a television machine.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal