Translation guide
The English phrase "turning over" can refer to physically flipping something, handing something over, or a change in state. This guide covers the most common Japanese expressions for these meanings.
To turn something over so the other side is facing up, or to flip it upside down.
The most common and versatile verb for flipping something over, turning it upside down, or reversing its orientation.
Please turn over the card.
He flipped the pancake over.
Specifically means to turn something over to its reverse side or inside out. Often used for paper, clothing, or objects with a clear front and back.
Please turn the paper over.
You're wearing your shirt inside out.
A more formal or technical term for reversing or inverting something, often used in computing or abstract contexts.
Please flip the image.
To give something to someone, especially after being asked or as part of a procedure.
The standard verb for handing something over to someone. It implies a direct transfer from one person to another.
Please hand over the documents to him.
Can you hand over the keys?
Used for formally handing over something, especially in legal or official contexts, like surrendering a suspect or delivering goods.
Literally 'hand over', emphasizing the direct, personal act of passing something by hand.
To roll over or change the side one is lying on, especially while sleeping.
To start behaving in a better way, to reform, or to make a fresh start.
To cause an engine to start or to rotate, often used for cars or motors.
ひっくり返す is a general term for flipping or overturning something, often with a sense of suddenness or completeness. 裏返す specifically means to turn something to its reverse side, like paper or clothing. Use 裏返す when the object has a clear front and back, and ひっくり返す for more dramatic flips or when the orientation is less defined.
flip a coin
turn over the answer sheet
Avoid directly translating 'turn over' as 回す (mawasu) or 曲がる (magaru). These mean 'rotate' or 'bend' and do not convey the intended meaning of flipping or handing over. Always consider the context and choose the appropriate Japanese verb.
turn over a page (of a book)
He turned over the paper.
The car turned over in the accident.
Please turn over your test papers now.
The suspect was turned over to the police.
彼は私に封筒を手渡した。
He handed me the envelope.
赤ちゃんが寝返った。
The baby turned over.
Intransitive verb meaning to be overturned or to flip over. Can be used for a person falling over or a vehicle overturning, but not typically for gentle turning in bed.
Not used for normal turning in bed; implies a sudden or violent overturning.
The car turned over.
Literally 'to be reborn', used figuratively to mean a complete transformation of character or lifestyle.
He became kind as if he had turned over a new leaf.