Pronunciation: [ɒtˈə͡ʊʃi] (IPA) 
The word "otoshi" is a Japanese term used in the martial art of Judo to describe a throwing technique. The spelling of this word is determined by its phonetic pronunciation in Japanese. It is pronounced as /o-to-shi/ with emphasis on the second syllable. The sound of "oto" in Japanese is similar to "oh-toe", while "shi" is pronounced as "she". The word is commonly spelled and written as "otoshi" in English, using the Latin alphabet.
Otoshi is a noun that originates from the Japanese language. It is commonly used to refer to a customary practice in Japanese restaurants, especially traditional ones. Otoshi can be translated to mean a cover charge or table charge in English, although its meaning encompasses more than just that.
In Japanese dining etiquette, otoshi represents a small dish or appetizer that is automatically served to customers immediately upon being seated at a restaurant, even before ordering. It is usually not listed on the menu, and its purpose is to provide a welcoming gesture and a taste of the establishment's culinary offerings. Otoshi dishes often vary depending on the season, the region, or the specialty of the restaurant.
Otoshi can be seen as an important part of Japanese dining culture as it sets the tone for the meal, prepares the palate for the subsequent dishes, and allows guests to sample the unique flavors of the restaurant. It is also considered a form of hospitality and a way to show gratitude for choosing their establishment.
However, it is essential to note that otoshi is not a free item, and usually, a small fee is added to the bill to cover its cost. The fee is generally fixed and known beforehand, but it may vary depending on the restaurant. Therefore, when dining in a Japanese restaurant, it is essential to be aware of the cultural practice of otoshi and to expect this delightful prelude to your culinary experience.
The word "otoshi" is a Japanese term that can have several meanings, depending on the context. Without specifying a particular meaning or usage, it is difficult to determine an exact etymology for the word.
If you are referring to the term "otoshi" in the context of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, it is derived from the verb "otosu", which means "to drop" or "to pour". In this context, "otoshi" refers to the "sweets of the day" that are served as a welcome treat before the tea is served.
On the other hand, if you are referring to "otoshi" in the context of martial arts, it can refer to an "unbalancing technique" or "throwing technique" in various disciplines such as Aikido or Judo. In this context, the etymology might be related to the verb "otosu", meaning "to drop".
