Translation guide
The English verb 'overturn' has several distinct meanings. This guide organizes them by practical use: physically flipping something over, reversing a decision or ruling, and overthrowing a government or system. For each meaning, natural Japanese expressions are provided, with notes on formality and usage.
To cause something to turn upside down or fall on its side, such as a vehicle, boat, or object.
The most common and versatile word for physically flipping something over. Used for objects, vehicles, and even situations (metaphorically).
彼はテーブルをひっくり返した。
He overturned the table.
車がひっくり返った。
The car overturned.
Specifically used for overturning boats or ships. Also used metaphorically for overthrowing a government.
嵐が船を転覆させた。
The storm overturned the boat.
Means to cause something to roll over onto its side, often used for vehicles.
トラックが横転した。
The truck overturned (rolled onto its side).
To officially change a previous decision, law, or court ruling so that it is no longer valid.
The standard term for overturning a decision, ruling, or precedent. Used in legal, political, and formal contexts.
最高裁はその判決を覆した。
The Supreme Court overturned the ruling.
彼はその決定を覆そうとした。
He tried to overturn the decision.
A legal term meaning to quash or overturn a lower court's decision. More formal than 覆す.
控訴審は原判決を破棄した。
The appeals court overturned the original ruling.
Means to withdraw or revoke a decision, statement, or policy. Often used when the original decision-maker changes their mind.
政府はその政策を撤回した。
The government overturned (withdrew) the policy.
To remove a government or leader from power, often by force.
Means to overthrow or bring down a government, regime, or powerful entity. Commonly used in political contexts.
革命軍は独裁政権を打倒した。
The revolutionary army overturned the dictatorship.
Metaphorically extends the 'capsizing' meaning to overthrowing a government or social order.
クーデターで政府を転覆させようとした。
They attempted to overturn the government in a coup.
Can also be used for overthrowing a system or established order, though less common than 打倒する for governments.
ひっくり返す is for physical overturning (tables, cars) or casual metaphorical flipping (situations). 覆す is for abstract reversals (decisions, theories, precedents) and is more formal. Do not use ひっくり返す for court rulings.
Avoid directly translating 'overturn' as ひっくり返す when referring to decisions or governments. Use 覆す or 打倒する instead. Using ひっくり返す in these contexts sounds childish or comical.
裁判所は有罪判決を覆した。
The court overturned the conviction.
嵐でボートが転覆した。
The boat overturned in the storm.
反乱軍が政府を打倒した。
The rebels overturned the government.
彼らは古い体制を覆そうとした。
They tried to overturn the old system.