包丁
hōchō[ho̞ːt͡ɕo̞ː]Japanese
The English phrase "kitchen knife" is 包丁 (hōchō) in Japanese.
包丁 refers specifically to knives used for food preparation.
Meaning: typical knife for preparing food (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is composed of the kanji 包 (wrap/enclose) and 丁 (a counter for small objects or blades), though it is used as a single noun for a kitchen knife.
How does it change in a sentence?
When you want to say you are performing an action with a kitchen knife, the particle で (de) is used after 包丁 to indicate the tool, such as in 包丁で.
How do you pronounce it?
hōchō
Did you know?
- The term 包丁 is actually a reference to a legendary Chinese cook named 'Bao Ding' from the philosopher Zhuangzi's writings. Over time, his name became the generic word for the tool he used.
- When discussing the maintenance of a 包丁, Japanese people often speak about 'polishing' or 'sharpening' as a meditative or ritualistic way to respect the tool. This elevates the object from a mere utensil to an object of respect.
- Japanese culinary culture often distinguishes between various types of 包丁 based on the specific task, such as a 出刃包丁 for fish or a 柳刃包丁 for sushi, making the general term just one of many highly specific tools.
Examples in context
- 子どもに包丁で遊ばせちゃ駄目だよ。You shouldn't let children play with the kitchen knife.This sentence is useful for showing how to advise against letting children play with a 包丁.Tatoeba #9119896 by bunbuku, translation #1243579 by CK
- 包丁が必要だ。I need a kitchen knife.This sentence is useful for expressing a need for a 包丁.Tatoeba #1006943 by mookeee, translation #2387443 by CK
- その包丁はどこのメーカーですか？Which brand is that kitchen knife?
- 新しい包丁を研いでください。atarashii hocho o toide kudasai.Please sharpen the new kitchen knife.
Example conversation
A couple is preparing dinner in the kitchen.
- 美咲 Misaki美咲：この包丁、すごくよく切れるね。kono hocho, sugoku yoku kireru ne.This kitchen knife cuts really well.
- 健太 Kenta健太：本当だ。切れ味がいいね。honto da. kireaji ga ii ne.You're right. It has a great edge.
- 美咲 Misaki美咲：野菜を切るのが楽だよ。yasai o kiru no ga raku da yo.It makes cutting vegetables easy.
- 健太 Kenta健太：使いやすそうで良かった。tsukaiyasusou de yokatta.I'm glad it seems easy to use.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “kitchen knife” translations and entries 包丁, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 包丁, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
