sumo ring; wrestling ring
The raised clay ring used in sumo wrestling. Also used metaphorically for a competitive arena or stage.
The sumo wrestler steps onto the ring.
The election campaign has finally found its arena.
forum; discussion platform
Figurative use: a place or opportunity for debate, negotiation, or competition. Often used in phrases like 土俵に乗せる (to bring to the table) or 土俵を変える (to change the terms of discussion).
We bring that issue to the discussion table.
We need to change the terms of the negotiation.
Literal meaning: a bag filled with sand or earth, used for flood control, fortification, or construction. Gabion is a wire-mesh container filled with stones or sand. This sense is less common in everyday conversation.
We stack sandbags to prevent flooding.
The wrestler stepped into the ring and bowed.
It's hard to compete on equal footing with a big corporation.
They stacked sandbags along the riverbank in preparation for flooding.
He was pushed out of the ring at the end and lost.
We were finally able to bring that issue to the table.
If the negotiation is going badly, you need to change the terms of discussion.
wrestler's active career
sumo wrestler's belt used in a bout