Translation guide
The English word 'masking' can refer to covering something physically, hiding a sound, or concealing one's true feelings or identity. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
To conceal emotions, thoughts, or personality behind a facade
Literally 'to hide one's true feelings'. This is a natural, common way to express masking emotions.
He is always masking his true feelings.
Literally 'to wear a mask'. A metaphorical expression for putting on a facade.
Many people wear a mask in society.
Idiom meaning to feign innocence or hide one's true nature, often used for someone acting meek.
She masks her true self in front of her boss.
To suppress or hold back emotions, often used when consciously controlling feelings.
He masked his emotions and spoke calmly.
To cover an object, area, or part of the body to hide it or protect it
General verb for covering something physically. Can be used for masking an object or area.
He masked his face with a cloth.
To hide or conceal something from view. Often used when the purpose is to prevent discovery.
Loanword from English, used in technical contexts like painting, audio, or data processing.
Mask off with masking tape before painting.
To cover or obscure a sound, often with another sound
The English word 'masking' is often used in psychology or everyday speech for hiding emotions. Direct translations like マスキング are not used in this sense. Use phrases like 本音を隠す or 仮面をかぶる instead.
傷を隠すために化粧をした。
She put on makeup to mask the scar.
This sound system utilizes the masking effect.