利器(りき)

りき
noun
useful tool; convenient device
formaltool
1. useful tool; convenient device; sharp instrument
A handy implement or technology that makes work easier. Most often appears in the set phrase 文明(ぶんめい)の利器(りき) (the conveniences of civilization).
スマホは文明(ぶんめい)の利器(りき)だ。
The smartphone is a convenience of modern civilization.
洗濯機(せんたくき)は家事(かじ)を楽(らく)にする利器(りき)だ。
The washing machine is a handy device that makes housework easier.
文明(ぶんめい)の利器(りき)に頼(たよ)りすぎると、不便(ふべん)な状況(じょうきょう)に弱(よわ)くなる。
If you rely too much on the conveniences of civilization, you become helpless in inconvenient situations.

Compound of 利(り) (benefit, sharpness) + 器(き) (implement). Somewhat literary; in everyday use it almost always appears in the fixed phrase below.

Common collocations

Similar words

  • 道具(どうぐ): tool; implement — the ordinary, neutral word for any tool
  • 器具(きぐ): apparatus; appliance — a specific piece of equipment for a purpose

Related Words

Compare: 道具(どうぐ) (tool)
Compare: 器具(きぐ) (apparatus)
general
Added 2026.5.27 11:07 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:02
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