時計が動く
この時計はまだ動いています。
This clock is still running.
for a clock or watch to operate mechanically or keep time.
時計が止まってしまった。
The clock has stopped.
この腕時計は正確に動く。
This watch runs accurately.
Used for both analog and digital timepieces. Can also metaphorically describe a process or system functioning smoothly (e.g., 交渉が動く 'the negotiation is moving forward').
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguishing 動く and 動作する
動く emphasizes natural movement (like a clock's gears), while 動作する is more technical (e.g., a machine's operation). Use 動く for clocks.
Gold Rule
Describing Clock Functionality
Use 時計が動く for general operation. Specify issues with 止まる (stop), 遅れる (slow), or 進む (fast).
Word Origin
時計 (tokei) means 'clock/watch' (from 時 'time' + 計 'measure'). 動く (ugoku) means 'to move'. The phrase combines these to describe the mechanical movement of a timepiece.
Usage Notes
Primarily used for mechanical clocks. For digital clocks, 電子時計が動く is more natural. In metaphorical contexts, it implies progress or forward motion in a process.