Translation guide
In Japanese, 'small dish' can refer to the physical plate or bowl, a side dish served in it, or a small portion of food. The most common word is 小皿 (kozara), but other terms exist depending on context.
Referring to a physically small plate, often used for side dishes, condiments, or as an underplate.
General term for a small plate or saucer. Commonly used in everyday contexts.
Please pour soy sauce into a small dish.
A small plate used for taking food from a shared dish. Often used at the dining table.
Could you pass me a small plate?
A very small plate, often decorative or used for tiny portions. Literally 'bean plate'.
This tiny dish is handmade.
Referring to a small bowl, typically for soup, rice, or side dishes.
Referring to a small portion of food served as a side dish, often in a small plate or bowl.
Referring to a small container for serving condiments, sauces, or small snacks.
小皿 (kozara) is a flat small plate, while 小鉢 (kobachi) is a small bowl. Use 小皿 for dry or solid items and 小鉢 for liquid or semi-liquid dishes.
Put pickles on a small plate.
Put miso soup in a small bowl.
In a restaurant, 'small dish' might be understood as 小鉢料理 (kobachi ryōri) or 突き出し (tsukidashi, an appetizer). At home, it's usually 小皿 or 取り皿.
Please serve rice into the bowl.
What's the side dish today?
A single dish or à la carte item, often small. Used in restaurant contexts.
We ordered an extra small dish.
醤油皿に醤油を注いでください。
Please pour soy sauce into the soy sauce dish.