繕う

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 繕う is read つくろう.
• Basic usage: It means either mending damaged clothing or keeping up an outward appearance.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Mending clothing
  • 袖口を繕った means that a frayed or damaged cuff was repaired.
• Keeping up appearances
  • 体裁を繕う means concealing an unfavorable situation to preserve appearances.