noun HSK 5
hardware · physical components
Meaning
硬件 refers to the physical, tangible components of a computer system or electronic device, as opposed to software. The term combines 硬 (hard, solid) with 件 (piece, item) to emphasize the physical nature of these components.
Usage
Commonly used in technology contexts to discuss computer parts, electronics, and IT infrastructure. Often contrasted with 软件 (software). Native speakers use it in both casual and professional settings when discussing technology.
Examples
- 01这台电脑的硬件配置很高。.This computer's hardware configuration is very high-end.
- 02我们公司需要升级硬件设备。.Our company needs to upgrade the hardware equipment.
Characters
Measure words
- 个一个硬件
- 件一件硬件
Common collocations
- 硬件设备hardware equipment
- 硬件设施hardware facilities
- 硬件配置hardware configuration
- 硬件故障hardware failure
Antonyms
Origin
A modern compound created as a translation of English 'hardware' in computing contexts. The term leverages 硬 (hard/solid) to represent physical objects and 件 (piece/item) as a general noun suffix.