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器 (うつわ) Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Common word JLPT N2 Freq. Frequency Top 2,000 Meanings 1
noun
bowl ; vessel ; container
A physical container for holding things, such as a bowl, dish, or vessel.
かみ
が
ある
。
Ceramic vessels have a warmth to them.
2
noun
ability ; capacity ; caliber
Figurative use referring to a person's innate ability, talent, or capacity to handle a role or task. Often used in expressions like 器が大きい (broad-minded, magnanimous) or 器ではない (not cut out for something).
Written forms 器うつわ Usage 98%
Standard kanji spelling for both literal and figurative senses.
うつわ Usage 2%
Kana spelling is common in everyday writing, especially when the figurative sense is intended.
Kanji 器 utensil, vessel, receptacle Similar words 才さい 能のう 才能 refers more to a specific talent or gift, while 器 emphasizes overall capacity, character, or suitability for a role.
容よう 器き 容器 is a more technical or general term for any container, while 器 often implies a bowl or dish used for serving food.
Etymology The kanji 器 originally depicts a container with a lid, representing a vessel. The figurative sense of 'capacity' or 'caliber' developed from the idea of a container's ability to hold things, extended to a person's ability to handle responsibilities.
