装置

• Reading: そうち
• Romaji: souchi
• Kanji breakdown: 装 (sou) — equip, dress; 置 (chi) — place, set
• Pronunciation: /soː.tɕi/

Meaning

Equipment; apparatus; device. A mechanism or system designed to perform a specific function.

A noun that also functions as a suru verb (装置する, to install/equip). Used for mechanical, electronic, or scientific equipment. Common in technical contexts: 安全装置 (safety device), 冷却装置 (cooling system), 装置を設置する (to set up equipment). More technical than 機械 (machine).

Examples

1. この工場には最新の安全装置が付いている。 This factory is equipped with the latest safety devices.
2. 実験用の装置を準備するのに時間がかかった。 It took time to set up the experimental equipment.
3. 空気を清潔にする装置を買った。 I bought a device that purifies the air.

Usage Guide

Context: technology, science, engineering

Tone: technical

Origin & History

Compound of 装 (sou, to equip/dress) and 置 (chi, to place/set). Together, 'equipping and placing' — setting up a functional mechanism.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal