noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', noun
Refers to something kept in reserve for a special occasion or need; often used as a noun modifier with の.
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', noun
Describes something personally valued and kept carefully, not just set aside; often implies emotional attachment.
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', noun
ace up one's sleeve; trump card; secret weapon
Figurative use for a hidden advantage or special resource kept for a decisive moment; often in competitive contexts.
Tonight is the night to open the special wine I've been saving.
He used his reserve funds for the trip.
I lost the treasured ring my grandmother gave me.
This is my prized recipe.
In the negotiation, I plan to bring out my trump card at the end.
He always has a secret weapon up his sleeve.
Kana spelling is standard; usually written in kana.
Kanji spelling using 置く; rare and somewhat old-fashioned.
Kanji spelling using 取る; less common but still seen.
Derived from the verb 取って置く (とっておく), meaning 'to put aside and keep'. The noun form とっておき comes from the continuative form of 取って置く, literally 'setting aside'.