WORD DETAIL
取り繕う
とりつくろう
Examples
Included kanji
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure:
取り繕う, readとりつくろう, means smoothing over an awkward appearance or mending something worn or torn. - Basic usage: It can cover an uncomfortable social moment with a smile or physically repair a torn kimono sleeve.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- Smoothing over a situation and mending clothing
- It can mean outwardly smoothing over an awkward situation or physically mending a torn sleeve. The object shows whether the repair is social or material.

