Translation guide
The English word "caliber" has two main meanings: the diameter of a bullet or gun barrel, and the quality or standard of someone or something. This guide covers both, with natural Japanese expressions.
Describing the level of ability, quality, or standard of a person or thing.
Refers to real ability, competence, or caliber. Commonly used for people's skills or an organization's capability.
Referring to the internal diameter of a gun barrel or the diameter of a bullet.
Do not use 口径 to describe a person's ability. 口径 only refers to physical diameter. For quality, use 実力 or 能力.
彼は高い実力を持っている。
He has high caliber.
その選手の実力は世界レベルだ。
That athlete's caliber is world-class.
General term for ability or capability. Slightly broader than 実力, often used in formal contexts.
彼女は高い能力の持ち主だ。
She is a person of high caliber.
Literally 'vessel', metaphorically means caliber or capacity of a person. Often used to describe someone's potential or stature.
彼はリーダーの器ではない。
He doesn't have the caliber to be a leader.
Refers to status, rank, or caliber. Often used in phrases like 格が違う (to be in a different league).
彼の演技は格が違う。
His acting is of a different caliber.
The standard technical term for caliber in firearms. Used for both gun barrels and bullets.
この銃の口径は9ミリだ。
The caliber of this gun is 9mm.
.45口径の弾丸
.45 caliber bullet
Also used in non-firearm contexts for the diameter of pipes or tubes.
パイプの口径を測る。
Measure the caliber of the pipe.