Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Cover" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "cover", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
覆う
おおう (oou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
網羅
もうら (mōra)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "cover" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 覆う and 網羅.
In Japanese, 覆う (おおう (oou)) is typically associated with "to cover, to hide, to wrap" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used to describe covering something physically, often completely, or metaphorically, like hiding a fact. 表面全体を何かで覆い隠すニュアンスがあります。.
On the other hand, 網羅 (もうら (mōra)) maps to "cover comprehensively, include everything, encompass" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents ある分野や範囲のすべてを漏れなく含み、完全にカバーしていることを指します。辞書、教科書、調査などが、広範な情報をすべて含んでいる様子を表す際によく使われます。. A literal translation of "cover" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "覆う"
彼は両手で顔を覆って泣いた。
He covered his face with both hands and cried.
Bilingual Context for "網羅"
この辞書は最新の専門用語を網羅している。
This dictionary comprehensively covers the latest technical terms.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は両手で顔を覆って泣いた。" (Meaning: "He covered his face with both hands and cried.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "覆う" fits here because it means "to cover, to hide, to wrap" in the context of: "He covered his face with both hands and cried.". "網羅" represents "cover comprehensively, include everything, encompass".