Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Overturn" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "overturn", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
覆す
くつがえす (kutsugaesu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
転覆
てんぷく (tenpuku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "overturn" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 覆す and 転覆.
In Japanese, 覆す (くつがえす (kutsugaesu)) is typically associated with "to overturn; overthrow; reverse; repudiate" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Implies changing the existing state completely, often a decision, system, or belief. Can be physical.
On the other hand, 転覆 (てんぷく (tenpuku)) maps to "overturn, capsizing, overthrow (of a regime)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 船や車などがひっくり返ること。また、比喩的に政府や組織などが倒されることを指します。物理的な事故だけでなく、体制の変革を語る際にも使われます。. A literal translation of "overturn" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "覆す"
彼は前回の判決を覆すための新たな証拠を見つけた。
He found new evidence to overturn the previous ruling.
Bilingual Context for "転覆"
強風により、小型船が転覆する事故が起こった。
Due to strong winds, a small boat capsized.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は前回の判決を ＿＿＿ ための新たな証拠を見つけた。" (Meaning: "He found new evidence to overturn the previous ruling.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "覆す" fits here because it means "to overturn; overthrow; reverse; repudiate" in the context of: "He found new evidence to overturn the previous ruling.". "転覆" represents "overturn, capsizing, overthrow (of a regime)".