Japanese word

机

Pronunciation

Romajitsukue

Meaning

  • noundesk

Example

机の上に本があります。tsukue no ue ni hon ga a ri ma su

There is a book on the desk.

Illustration for 机 (desk)

More examples

私は机で宿題をします。watashi wa tsukue de shuku dai o shi ma su

I do my homework at my desk.

授業中は机の引き出しを閉めてください。ju gyō chū wa tsukue no hi ki da shi o shi me te ku da sa i

Please keep the desk drawer closed during class.

Core concept

Refers to a raised surface designed to support reading, writing, or other focused work.

Common phrases

  • 机の上tsukue no ue

    on the desk

  • 机の下tsukue no shita

    under the desk

  • 机に向かうtsukue ni mu ka u

    sit at a desk

Similar words

テーブルtēburu: A piece of furniture with a flat surface for eating or other general activities.
デスクdesuku: A work table designed for office tasks, often with space for a computer.

Definition in Japanese

本を読んだり書き物をしたりする作業に使う、脚の付いた台。hon o yo n da ri ka ki mono o shi ta ri su ru sa gyō ni tsuka u ashi no tsu i ta dai

Word origin

The Japanese native word つくえ (tsukue, "desk") is conventionally written 机 (tsukue, "desk"); its older etymology is uncertain.

Usage tips

  • In everyday Japanese, 机 (tsukue) usually suggests a work or study surface, while テーブル (tēburu) more often refers to a dining or general-purpose table.

Other meanings

  • tablenoun

Word lists with this word