持ち味
Meanings
1
inherent flavor; natural taste
Refers to the original, unadulterated taste of an ingredient, often used in cooking contexts.
This dish makes the most of the ingredients' natural flavors.
2
distinctive character; unique quality; special talent
Used for a person's or work's inherent charm, personality, or strong point. Often appears in phrases like 持ち味を出す or 持ち味を生かす.
His distinctive quality is his cheerfulness.
We'll fight by making the most of the team's unique strengths.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉の持ち味を生かすto make the most of someone's distinctive quality
The coach made decisions that brought out each player's unique strengths.
- 素材の持ち味を生かすto bring out the natural flavor of an ingredient
This soup is simply seasoned to bring out the natural flavor of its ingredients.
- 持ち味を出すto show one's own distinctive style or quality
The new singer is trying to bring out her own distinctive style.