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.
He has high caliber.
General term for ability or capability. Slightly broader than 実力, often used in formal contexts.
Literally 'vessel', metaphorically means caliber or capacity of a person. Often used to describe someone's potential or stature.
Refers to status, rank, or caliber. Often used in phrases like 格が違う (to be in a different league).
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.
That athlete's caliber is world-class.
彼女は高い能力の持ち主だ。
She is a person of high caliber.
He doesn't have the caliber to be a leader.
His acting is of a different caliber.
The standard technical term for caliber in firearms. Used for both gun barrels and bullets.
The caliber of this gun is 9mm.
.45 caliber bullet
Also used in non-firearm contexts for the diameter of pipes or tubes.
Measure the caliber of the pipe.