Translation guide
The English verb 'tuck' has several distinct physical actions and a few idiomatic uses. This guide covers the most common meanings for learners: pushing or folding the edge of something (like a shirt) into place, putting something into a confined space, positioning a body part snugly, and the phrase 'tuck in' for eating or covering in bed.
To secure or neaten fabric, paper, etc. by pushing its edge under or behind something.
General verb meaning to push or stuff something into a space. Works for tucking in shirts, sheets, etc.
I tucked my shirt into my pants.
Please tuck the edge of the sheet under the mattress.
Means to insert or pinch something between two things. Often used for tucking hair behind an ear or a napkin under a chin.
I tucked my hair behind my ear.
Specifically means to fold something in. Used for tucking in the edges of fabric when sewing, or folding a flap inside.
Please tuck in the seam allowance.
To place an object into a small, secure, or hidden spot.
General verb for putting something away in its proper place. Implies tidying or storing.
I tucked the key into my pocket.
Tuck your toys away in the box.
Means to hide or conceal. Use when the focus is on keeping something out of sight.
To insert or slot something into a narrow opening. Good for tucking a card into a slot or a bookmark into a book.
To draw a limb close to the body or into a compact position.
Means to hold or hug something tightly to oneself. Commonly used for tucking knees to the chest.
She sat with her knees tucked up to her chest.
To pull something closer. Can be used for tucking a limb in.
To bend or fold a joint. Used for tucking an arm or leg into a specific position, like in gymnastics.
To start eating with enthusiasm, often used in British English.
To arrange bedclothes around someone, usually a child, to make them comfortable.
English 'tuck' covers many specific actions. Japanese often uses different verbs depending on what is being tucked and where. Avoid using a single Japanese word for all meanings.
押し込む (oshikomu) emphasizes pushing into a tight space. 挟む (hasamu) is for pinching between two surfaces. しまう (shimau) is for putting away neatly. Choose based on the action.
She tucked the letter into her bag.
Tuck your knees to your chest.
彼は手紙を本の間に隠した。
He tucked the letter between the pages of a book.
しおりを本に差し込んだ。
I tucked a bookmark into the book.
I tucked my legs in and curled up into a ball.
The gymnast tucked her body into a tight position.
Means to put a child to bed and soothe them to sleep. Includes the whole bedtime routine, not just the tucking.
I tuck my child in every night.