装置

• Pinyin: zhuāng zhì
• Hanzi breakdown: 装 = 衣 (to dress/fit out) + 壮 (strong), to install; 置 = 罒 (net) + 直 (upright), to place or position

Meaning

Device; apparatus; installation. A piece of equipment or a system assembled to perform a specific function.

Used as a noun: 安全装置 (safety device), 爆炸装置 (explosive device), 太阳能装置 (solar installation). Also used as a verb in formal contexts: 装置机器 (to install machinery). In art: 装置艺术 (installation art). A technical and formal term across many fields.

Examples

1. 工厂里的每台机器都配备了完善的安全装置。 Every machine in the factory is equipped with a comprehensive set of safety devices.
2. 博物馆里有一件现代装置艺术作品，吸引了很多参观者。 There is a modern installation artwork in the museum that has attracted many visitors.
3. 这套过滤装置可以有效去除水中的有害物质。 This filtration device can effectively remove harmful substances from water.

Usage Guide

Context: technology, science, arts

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这个房间安装了一套先进的空气净化装置。(This room has been fitted with an advanced air purification device.)
• 展览中最受欢迎的是一件互动装置艺术作品。(The most popular exhibit was an interactive installation artwork.)

Don't Say

• 把'装置'随意用于普通的日常家用小物品 (Don't use 装置 for ordinary small household objects — it implies a more complex, purposefully assembled device or system; use 东西 or 工具 for everyday items)

Origin & History

From 装 (to install/fit out) and 置 (to place/set up, 罒 net + 直 upright — to set something in position), together meaning 'something that has been installed and put in place'.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal