Level 3

덮다

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Usage of '덮다'

The verb '덮다' primarily means 'to cover' or 'to veil' something physically or metaphorically. It is commonly used when talking about covering objects like blankets, cloths, or lids, but also in abstract contexts such as covering up mistakes or hiding facts.

Common Collocations

  • 이불을 덮다: to cover oneself with a blanket, often used when talking about sleeping or staying warm.
  • 책상을 덮다: to cover a desk or table, usually with a cloth or paper.
  • 실수를 덮다: to cover up a mistake, often implying concealment or deception.

Register and Usage Notes

'덮다' is a standard verb used in both formal and informal contexts. When used metaphorically (e.g., covering up mistakes), it often implies an attempt to hide or avoid responsibility.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '덮다' with '씌우다' (to put on or cover something on top), but '덮다' usually implies covering something completely or partially, often by placing something over it, whereas '씌우다' can imply forcing or fitting something onto an object or person.

Example Sentences

추운 날씨에 이불을 덮고 자야 해요.

Chuun nalssie ibureul deopgo jaya haeyo.

You should sleep covered with a blanket in cold weather.

책상 위에 먼지가 많이 쌓여서 천으로 덮었어요.

Chaeksang wie meonjiga mani ssahyeoseo cheoneuro deopeosseoyo.

There was a lot of dust on the desk, so I covered it with a cloth.

그는 자신의 실수를 덮으려고 거짓말을 했다.

Geuneun jasinui silsureul deopeuryeogo geojismareul haetta.

He lied to cover up his mistake.