Translation and Meaning of: 被せる - kabuseru

On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word 被せる (kabuseru) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.

Romaji: kabuseru

Kana: かぶせる

Type: verb

L: jlpt-n2

被せる

Translation / Meaning: cover (with something); dish something (with a metal); spill or trace a liquid (on something); carry (a person with a fault)

Meaning in English: to cover (with something);to plate something (with a metal);to pour or dash a liquid (on something);to charge (a person with a guilt)

Definition: Put it on the top or bottom or on one side.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
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- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (被せる) kabuseru

The word 「被せる」 (kabuseru) is a transitive verb in Japanese that means "to cover," "to put on," or "to wrap." This term is often used in the context of placing something over another thing, such as covering a pot with a lid or protecting a plant with a cover. The versatility of 「被せる」 caters to various everyday situations, reflecting the linguistic and cultural richness of Japanese.

Etymologically, 「被せる」 derives from the base verb 「被す」 (kabusu), which has similar connotations of covering and protection. The kanji 「被」 is composed of the radicals 「衣」, meaning "clothing", and 「皮」, which represents "skin" or "peel". This combination suggests the idea of a protective layer, essentially capturing the essence of "to cover". This construction shares its origin with such protective and defensive elements, highlighting the importance of sheltering and protecting in the Japanese cultural and linguistic context.

In the historical context, expressions derived from 「被せる」 can be found in classic Japanese texts that illustrate the verb in the act of covering valuable objects to protect them. In a figurative sense, 「被せる」 can also be used to indicate the act of protecting someone, adding a layer of poetic and metaphoric meaning. However, the word is not limited to a positive use; it can also imply intentionally hiding or covering something, revealing the depth and complexity of the Japanese language.

Additionally, some variations and idiomatic expressions may include combinations and conjugations to express specific nuances. For example, related verbs such as 「掛ける」 (kakeru), which means "to hang" or "to put", can be used together with 「被せる」 to emphasize the action of covering. This versatility demonstrates how language can be intricate, even though it is straightforward in its basic form.