Uchikura & Co., LLC

Kuwasemono — More Than Meets the Eye
The Japanese word kuwasemono (食わせ物・食わせ者) describes someone or something that is not what it first appears to be.

 

The expression comes from kuwaseru, meaning “to make someone eat.” However, in this context, it does not literally refer to food. It means making someone “swallow” a lie, accept a trick, or believe that something false is genuine. It is related to the Japanese expression ippai kuwasareru (一杯食わされる), meaning “to be tricked” or “to be taken in.”

 

Originally, kuwasemono referred to an object that looked valuable or genuine but was actually inferior or fake. When used for a person, usually written 食わせ者, it describes someone who appears ordinary, harmless, or sincere but is actually clever, calculating, and difficult to read.

 

The meaning is generally negative, but it can sometimes include a reluctant sense of admiration. A kuwasemono may be deceptive, yet intelligent enough to outmaneuver everyone else.

 

In business, the most dangerous person is not always the loudest. It may be the quiet person who listens carefully, reveals very little, and waits for the right moment to act.

 

Never underestimate someone simply because they appear harmless. That person may be a real kuwasemono.