工具（こうぐ、kougu）
- tool

The Japanese word 工具 means "tools" or "implements." It refers to objects or devices used to perform a specific task, often in construction, repair, crafting, or other practical activities. The term encompasses a wide variety of items, from simple hand tools to more complex power tools. It emphasizes the function of these items in aiding human effort.

⚫︎父は日曜大工が好きで、たくさんの工具を持っています。 Translation: My father likes DIY and has many tools. ⚫︎新しいプロジェクトのために、必要な工具を揃えました。 Translation: I gathered the necessary tools for the new project. ⚫︎この機械の修理には、特殊な工具が必要です。 Translation: Special tools are needed to repair this machine.

工具 is a common and versatile word. You can use it in various contexts when discussing tools. It is appropriate in both formal and informal situations. It is also frequently used in business and technical settings. When referring to a specific tool, you can often combine 工具 with a descriptive word, such as 大工工具（carpenter's tools）or 電動工具（power tools）.

工具 is typically written in kanji as 工具. The reading is こうぐ in hiragana. There are no variations in okurigana.

⚫︎ 道具（どうぐ）- general term for tools, instruments, or equipment ⚫︎ 用具（ようぐ）- tools or equipment for a specific purpose ⚫︎ 器械（きかい）- machine, instrument, or device (can overlap with tools, but often implies more complex mechanisms)

⚫︎ There aren't direct antonyms for 工具. However, words that relate to the *lack* of tools, or methods that don't use tools, could be considered related.

この工具は使いやすいですか？ ・Translation: Is this tool easy to use? ・Explanation: This sentence directly asks about the usability of a specific tool. It's a common phrase in workshops or when borrowing tools.

修理には適切な工具が必要不可欠です。 ・Translation: Proper tools are essential for the repair. ・Explanation: This emphasizes the importance of having the right tools for a specific task, highlighting their necessity.

The word 工具 is composed of two kanji: 工 (こう) meaning "work," "craft," or "construction," and 具 (ぐ) meaning "tool," "implement," or "equipment." Therefore, 工具 literally means "work tools" or "construction tools," which accurately reflects its meaning.