Translation guide
The English word 'mantle' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: a loose cloak, a figurative role or responsibility, a layer in geology, and a mesh cover for gas lamps. Other technical or literary uses are less frequent.
A loose sleeveless garment worn over other clothes, often in historical or fantasy contexts.
The most common word for a cloak or cape, especially in fantasy, historical, or costume contexts. A loanword from French 'manteau'.
彼は黒いマントを羽織っていた。
He was wearing a black mantle.
A more formal or literary term for an overcoat or cloak. Can sound old-fashioned.
旅人は厚い外套に身を包んでいた。
The traveler was wrapped in a thick mantle.
A shorter cape, often for fashion rather than warmth. More specific than 'mantle'.
彼女はドレスに合わせてケープを着ていた。
She wore a cape with her dress.
A role, duty, or legacy passed from one person to another, as in 'take up the mantle'.
Literally 'to take over a role'. The most natural way to express assuming someone's responsibilities or legacy.
彼は父の役割を引き継いだ。
He took up his father's mantle.
Literally 'to take over the baton'. A common metaphor for passing on a task or responsibility, similar to 'mantle'.
新社長が前社長からバトンを引き継いだ。
The new president took up the mantle from the former president.
A Buddhist term meaning to inherit a master's teachings or mantle. Used figuratively for artistic or spiritual succession.
彼は師匠の衣鉢を継いだ。
He inherited his master's mantle.
The layer of the Earth between the crust and the core.
The standard scientific term for the Earth's mantle. A loanword from English.
地球のマントルは岩石でできている。
The Earth's mantle is made of rock.
A mesh cover placed over a gas flame to produce bright light.
The same word as the geological term, but context distinguishes them. Used for camping lanterns or old gas lamps.
ランタンのマントルが破れたので交換した。
The lantern's mantle tore, so I replaced it.
The English idiom 'take up the mantle' cannot be translated word-for-word into Japanese. Use phrases like 役割を引き継ぐ or バトンを引き継ぐ instead.
彼はリーダーの役割を引き継いだ。
He took up the mantle of leader.