手の内・手のうち|てのうちtenouchi[2]nakadaka (mid-high)
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Which spelling to use
手の内手の内 is the most common written form and is the best choice for learners when writing this word.
手のうち手のうち is a less common spelling of the same word; you may encounter it, but beginners should generally choose 手の内 instead.
Definitions
- nounpalm (of one's hand)
- nounskill
- noun(in one's) grip; (under one's) control; (in one's) pocket
- nounone's (concealed) intentions; one's cards; one's scheme
- noun, mahjong, card gamesone's hand
Synonyms & antonyms
- Synonym腕前うでまえNeutralAbility or skill, as in 「腕前を見せる」; 「手の内」 also means skill but more often refers to one's tactics or hidden cards, as in 「手の内を明かす」.
- Related掌中しょうちゅうWrittenWritten/formal term for the palm of the hand, or figuratively what one can control at will, as in 「掌中に収める」; stresses control.
Use 「手の内」 for the palm of the hand or for tactics and cards you keep hidden, as in 「手の内を明かす」 and 「手の内を読む」; for what you control say 「掌中」, for skill say 「腕前」.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese definitions
Kanji in this word
English equivalents
See also


