计算机

• Pinyin: jì suàn jī
• Hanzi breakdown: 计 (jì) — to count, to plan; 算 (suàn) — to calculate; 机 (jī) — machine

Meaning

Computer. The formal term for a computing device.

The formal and technical term for computer. In everyday conversation, 电脑 (literally 'electric brain') is far more common. 计算机 is used in academic, professional, and technical contexts such as 计算机科学 (computer science).

Examples

1. 他在大学学计算机。 He studies computer science at university.
2. 这个教室里有很多计算机。 There are many computers in this classroom.
3. 计算机可以帮我们做很多事。 Computers can help us do many things.

Usage Guide

Context: technology, education, professional

Tone: technical

Do Say

• 我是学计算机的。(I study computer science.)
• 计算机坏了。(The computer is broken.)

Don't Say

• 在日常对话中不要总说计算机，说电脑更自然 (In casual conversation, say 电脑 rather than 计算机 — it sounds more natural and everyday)

Origin & History

Compound of 计算 (to calculate, to compute) and 机 (machine). Literally a 'calculating machine,' reflecting the original purpose of computers.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal