noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
boning; deboning
The physical act of removing bones from fish or meat.
魚の骨抜きは料理の下ごしらえで大切だ。
Deboning fish is an important part of food preparation.
noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
watering down; weakening; emasculation
Figurative use: removing the substance, force, or effectiveness from a plan, bill, argument, or person. Often used in political or critical contexts.
その法案は審議の過程で骨抜きにされた。
The bill was watered down during the deliberation process.
彼の反論は完全に骨抜きだった。
His rebuttal was completely toothless.
The chef deboned the mackerel pike.
The bill was watered down due to the opposition party's objections.
The reform plan ended up being watered down.