three cardinal virtues
Refers to the Confucian trio of wisdom, benevolence, and valor. A formal, somewhat literary term.
Samurai valued the three cardinal virtues.
three uses; three advantages
Describes something that serves three functions or offers three benefits. Often seen in product names like 三徳包丁 (all-purpose kitchen knife).
See also: 三徳包丁
This knife is called a santoku knife; it can cut meat, fish, and vegetables.
three qualities of nirvana; three virtues of Buddhahood
Buddhist technical terms. Sense 3 refers to qualities of nirvana (dharmakaya, prajna, moksha); sense 4 refers to virtues of Buddhahood (benevolence, wisdom, renunciation of klesha). Both are rare outside specialist contexts.
The concept of the three virtues is expounded in Buddhist scriptures.
Edo-period three-pocket pouch
Historical term for a small pouch with separate compartments for a handkerchief, notes, and toothpicks, popular in the Edo period.
The Edo-period santoku was a small pouch for holding a handkerchief, writing tools, and toothpicks.
santoku knife; all-purpose kitchen knife
From 三 (three) + 徳 (virtue, benefit). The specific meanings derive from different contexts: Confucian ethics, practical utility, and Buddhist doctrine.