调试

• Pinyin: tiáo shì
• Hanzi breakdown: 调 = 讠+ 周 — to adjust; 试 = 讠+ 式 — to test

Meaning

To debug; to test and adjust; to calibrate.

Technical term for testing and adjusting equipment, software, or systems to ensure proper function. Common in IT (debugging code), manufacturing (calibrating machines), and engineering contexts.

Examples

1. 程序员花了一整天调试代码，终于找到了那个隐藏的bug。 The programmer spent an entire day debugging code and finally found that hidden bug.
2. 新设备安装后需要调试一段时间才能正式投入使用。 New equipment needs a period of testing and adjustment before it can be officially put into use.
3. 音响师正在调试舞台上的音响设备，准备晚上的演出。 The sound engineer is adjusting the audio equipment on stage, preparing for tonight's show.

Usage Guide

Context: IT, engineering, equipment

Tone: professional

Do Say

• 调试程序。(Debug the program.)
• 设备正在调试中。(The equipment is being tested.)

Don't Say

• 用'调试'描述简单的设置更改 (调试 implies systematic testing — for simple settings, use 设置 or 调整)

Origin & History

调 means to adjust, 试 means to test — adjusting and testing.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal