机

• Reading: つくえ
• Romaji: tsukue
• Kanji breakdown: 机 (ki/tsukue) — desk
• Pronunciation: /tsɯ.kɯ.e/

Meaning

Desk. A table used for studying, writing, or working.

Distinct from テーブル (table for eating/general use) — 机 specifically refers to a desk for work or study. One of the first nouns taught in N5 location descriptions: 机の上に (on the desk), 机の下に (under the desk). Common in school and office settings: 机に向かう (sit down at one's desk to study/work).

Examples

1. 机の上に本があります。 There is a book on the desk.
2. 勉強する前に机を片付けます。 I tidy up the desk before studying.
3. 教室の机は木でできています。 The desks in the classroom are made of wood.

Usage Guide

Context: school, office, home

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 机 combines 木 (tree/wood) with 几 (small table), depicting a wooden surface supported by legs — a simple piece of furniture for writing or reading.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal