置物
Meanings
1
ornament; decorative object
A physical object placed for decoration, such as a figurine, vase, or display piece.
I have a small ornament displayed on the shelf.
This decorative object is something I received from my grandmother.
2
figurehead; leader without real power
Metaphorical use for a person who holds a title but has no real authority or influence.
He is the chairman, but in reality he is nothing more than a figurehead.
Usage patterns
- 〈場所〉に置物を飾るto display an ornament in a place
I displayed an old ornament in the alcove.
- 置物になるto become a mere figurehead (with no real power)
The president is president in name only; in reality he's just a figurehead.