(うつわ)

うつわ
noun
vessel, container; capacity, caliber
tool
1. vessel, container, dish
A container or dish used for holding food, drink, or other items. Often refers to pottery, ceramics, or tableware with aesthetic value.
I arranged the food on a beautiful dish.
This restaurant is particular about its tableware too.
I made my own pottery dish at a ceramics class.
2. capacity, caliber, character
A person's capacity, caliber, or suitability for a role. Used figuratively to describe whether someone has the personal qualities needed for a position or responsibility.
(かれ)リーダー(うつわ)だ。
He has the caliber to be a leader.
I want to become a person of great character.
I know myself that I'm not cut out to be president.

In sense 1, (うつわ) is closely associated with Japanese food culture and aesthetics — the presentation of food on carefully chosen (うつわ) is considered an important part of the dining experience.

In sense 2, (うつわ)(おお)きい (big vessel) means someone is generous and broad-minded, while (うつわ)(ちい)さい (small vessel) means someone is petty or narrow-minded.

Common collocations