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器の小さい (うつわのちいさい) Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Meanings 1
expression, i-adjective
intolerant ; small-minded ; petty
Describes a person who is narrow-minded, unable to accept differences, or quick to take offense. Literally 'small vessel', implying a limited capacity for tolerance or generosity. Often used critically.
See also: 器が小さい
Antonyms: 器の大きい
ちょっと
し
た
こと
で
怒おこ
る
。
He's a small-minded person, so he gets angry over little things.
Kanji 器 utensil, vessel, receptacle Similar words 器うつわ が 小ちい さい Synonymous expression; 器の小さい is the attributive form (modifying a noun), while 器が小さい is the predicative form (ending a sentence).
器うつわ の 大おお きい Antonym meaning 'broad-minded', 'generous', or 'magnanimous'.
Etymology From 器 (うつわ, 'vessel, container') + の (possessive particle) + 小さい (ちいさい, 'small'). The metaphorical use of 'vessel' to represent a person's capacity or character is common in Japanese.