Translation and Meaning of: 被せる - kabuseru

If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about the language, you may have come across the word 被せる[かぶせる]. It appears in various contexts, from everyday situations to more specific expressions. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and practical uses, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively. If you want to understand how this word works in practice, you have come to the right place.

Meaning and translation of 被せる

The word 被せる [かぶせる] can be translated as "to cover," "to place over," or "to cap." It is a transitive verb, meaning it requires a direct object to make sense. For example, it can be used to describe the action of covering a pot with a lid or placing a hat on someone's head.

In addition to its literal meaning, 被せる can also have a more abstract use, such as when someone tries to assign the blame for something to another person. In this case, the idea of "covering" transforms into "wrongly blaming." This flexibility makes the word useful in different situations, both in everyday life and in more formal contexts.

Origin and writing in kanji

The kanji 被 is composed of the radical 衣 (clothing) and the component 皮 (skin). This combination suggests the idea of something that covers or wraps, like an outfit. The verb 被せる is formed by this kanji followed by the suffix せる, which indicates direct action on something or someone.

It is worth noting that 被せる is not an extremely common verb in everyday Japanese, but it frequently appears in manuals, instructions, and descriptions of actions. Its kanji is also used in other words, such as 被害 (damage) and 被る (to suffer), which can help with memorization.

How to use 被せる in daily life

One of the most common situations in which you will hear 被せる is while cooking. Phrases like "鍋に蓋を被せる" (cover the pot with the lid) are quite practical. Another example is "子供に帽子を被せる" (put a hat on the child), showing how the verb applies to simple actions.

In a figurative sense, it is possible to use 被せる to describe situations where someone tries to transfer responsibility. For example, in work discussions, one might say "彼は失敗を私に被せた" (he tried to put the blame for the mistake on me). However, this usage is less frequent and depends on the context.

Tips for memorizing 被せる

An effective way to remember this word is to associate it with mental images. Think of someone covering a pot or putting on a hat – concrete actions that relate to the meaning of the verb. Another strategy is to create flashcards with short sentences that use 被せる in different contexts.

In addition, observing the kanji 被 can help. As it contains the radical for "clothes," it becomes easier to remember that it is related to covering or dressing something. Practicing the writing of the kanji also reinforces memorization, especially if you already know other words that use it.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 被せる

• 被せる - Regular Godan Verb - Dictionary form
• 被せられる - Regular Godan verb- Passive form
• 被せられた - Regular Godan verb- Past passive form
• 被せて - Regular Godan verb - Form te
• 被せない - Regular Godan verb - Negative form

Synonyms and similar words

• 覆う (Ōu) - Cover, obscure.
• 覆す (Kawanusu) - Turn, reverse, challenge.
• 覆いかぶさる (Oikabosaru) - Overlapping, completely covering.
• 覆い被さる (Oikabasaru) - To overlap, placing oneself on top.
• 被せかぶせる (Kavasekabuseru) - Place one thing on top of another repeatedly.
• 被せ掛ける (Kabusekakeru) - Put on, take care of covering.
• 被せる (Kabuseru) - Put something on top, cover.

被せる

Romaji: kabuseru
Kana: かぶせる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2

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.