1.
presence, gravitas, dignity, commanding air
An impressive, authoritative aura that comes from experience, age, or status. The quality of someone who naturally commands respect.
社長には貫禄がある。
The company president has a commanding presence.
彼は若いのに貫禄がある。
He has gravitas despite being young.
横綱にふさわしい貫禄を見せて、堂々とした相撲を取った。
He showed the gravitas befitting a yokozuna and wrestled with a commanding dignity.
KANJI:
貫 (pierce/carry through) + 禄 (stipend/reward). Historically related to a samurai's stipend — someone with high 貫禄 had the bearing of a high-ranking person.
USAGE:
貫禄がある (to have gravitas) is the most common pattern. Generally positive, but can also be used humorously — for example, when someone has gained weight, people might joke that they've gained 貫禄.
The word is often used for leaders, experienced professionals, and athletes who project an air of authority.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 貫禄がある: to have gravitas/presence
- 貫禄が出てきた: gravitas has developed
- 貫禄十分: full of gravitas
- 貫禄を見せる: to show one's commanding presence