键盘

• Pinyin: jiàn pán
• Hanzi breakdown: 键 = 钅(metal) + 建 (establish), meaning key; 盘 = 舟 (boat) + 皿 (dish), meaning board/plate

Meaning

Keyboard. Input device with keys for typing.

Refers to computer keyboards, piano keyboards, and other key-based input devices. 键盘侠 is slang for 'keyboard warrior' — someone who is aggressive online but passive in real life.

Examples

1. 这款机械键盘打字手感特别好，很多程序员都喜欢用。 This mechanical keyboard has a great typing feel; many programmers like to use it.
2. 键盘上沾了灰尘，我得用毛刷清理一下。 The keyboard has dust on it; I need to clean it with a brush.
3. 网上那些键盘侠只会躲在屏幕后面发表攻击性言论。 Those keyboard warriors online only hide behind screens making aggressive comments.

Usage Guide

Context: technology, office, gaming, internet

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 我需要买一个新键盘。(I need to buy a new keyboard.)
• 键盘快捷键可以提高工作效率。(Keyboard shortcuts can improve work efficiency.)

Don't Say

• 弹钢琴的键盘很大 (For piano specifically, people often just say 琴键 for the keys rather than 键盘)

Origin & History

Compound of 键 (key) + 盘 (board, plate), meaning a board/panel of keys.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal