Translation guide
The English verb 'overturn' has several distinct meanings. This guide organizes them by practical use: physically flipping something over, reversing a decision or ruling, and overthrowing a government or system. For each meaning, natural Japanese expressions are provided, with notes on formality and usage.
To cause something to turn upside down or fall on its side, such as a vehicle, boat, or object.
The most common and versatile word for physically flipping something over. Used for objects, vehicles, and even situations (metaphorically).
He overturned the table.
The car overturned.
Specifically used for overturning boats or ships. Also used metaphorically for overthrowing a government.
The storm overturned the boat.
Means to cause something to roll over onto its side, often used for vehicles.
The truck overturned (rolled onto its side).
To officially change a previous decision, law, or court ruling so that it is no longer valid.
The standard term for overturning a decision, ruling, or precedent. Used in legal, political, and formal contexts.
The Supreme Court overturned the ruling.
A legal term meaning to quash or overturn a lower court's decision. More formal than 覆す.
Means to withdraw or revoke a decision, statement, or policy. Often used when the original decision-maker changes their mind.
The government overturned (withdrew) the policy.
To remove a government or leader from power, often by force.
Means to overthrow or bring down a government, regime, or powerful entity. Commonly used in political contexts.
The revolutionary army overturned the dictatorship.
Metaphorically extends the 'capsizing' meaning to overthrowing a government or social order.
They attempted to overturn the government in a coup.
Can also be used for overthrowing a system or established order, though less common than 打倒する for governments.
ひっくり返す is for physical overturning (tables, cars) or casual metaphorical flipping (situations). 覆す is for abstract reversals (decisions, theories, precedents) and is more formal. Do not use ひっくり返す for court rulings.
Avoid directly translating 'overturn' as ひっくり返す when referring to decisions or governments. Use 覆す or 打倒する instead. Using ひっくり返す in these contexts sounds childish or comical.
The court overturned the conviction.
The boat overturned in the storm.
The rebels overturned the government.
He tried to overturn the decision.
The appeals court overturned the original ruling.
They tried to overturn the old system.