柄

• Reading: がら
• Romaji: gara
• Kanji breakdown: 柄 (gara/e) — pattern, handle, character
• Pronunciation: /ɡa.ɾa/

Meaning

Pattern; design; build; character. Refers to decorative patterns on fabric or a person's nature and physique.

A versatile noun with multiple meanings depending on context. When referring to fabric or clothing, 柄 means a pattern or design (花柄 — floral pattern). When describing people, it refers to character or build (柄が大きい — large build; 人柄 — personality). The reading え is used for patterns, while がら appears in compounds like 人柄.

Examples

1. この服の柄がとても気に入った。 I really like the pattern on this outfit.
2. 花柄のワンピースを買いたい。 I want to buy a floral-print dress.
3. 彼は柄が大きいからよく目立つ。 He has a big build, so he really stands out.

Usage Guide

Context: fashion, daily life, personality description

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 柄 originally meant 'handle' or 'grip' (of a tool), from 木 (tree) and 丙 (third). The meaning expanded to include patterns (like the design on a handle) and personal characteristics.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal