Meaning
器官 refers to a distinct part of an organism that performs a specific function, most commonly used for biological organs in humans and animals. The word combines 器 (implement/vessel) and 官 (official/government office), together suggesting a functional component with an official role within a system.
Usage
Commonly used in medical, biological, and scientific contexts. Native speakers use it to discuss both internal organs (心脏、肝脏) and sensory organs (眼睛、耳朵). Often appears in medical discussions, health education, and anatomy lessons. The term can also extend metaphorically to organizational structures.
Examples
- 01心脏是人体最重要的器官之一。.The heart is one of the most important organs in the human body.
- 02这家医院专门从事器官移植手术。.This hospital specializes in organ transplant surgeries.
Characters
Measure words
- 个一个器官
- 种几种器官
Common collocations
- 器官移植organ transplant
- 内部器官internal organs
- 感觉器官sensory organs
- 器官捐献organ donation
Origin
The combination of 器 (vessel/implement) and 官 (official position) creates a metaphor where body parts are conceived as functional officials or tools within the body's governmental system, each with specific duties.