Proverb / Kotowaza
猫を被る
To hide one's true nature and behave in a gentle or innocent manner.
To wear a cat [on one's head]
Quick Answer
To hide one's true nature and behave in a gentle or innocent manner.
- Literal Image
- To wear a cat [on one's head]
- How to Use It
- Used to describe someone who is acting significantly more polite or reserved than their actual character warrants, especially in new social settings or to make a good impression.
Meaning
This expression describes the act of concealing one's real personality or intentions by acting quiet, mild-mannered, or naive. It can also refer to pretending not to know something that one actually does.
Literal Image
To wear a cat [on one's head]
How to Use It
Used to describe someone who is acting significantly more polite or reserved than their actual character warrants, especially in new social settings or to make a good impression.
Tone
Carries a slightly critical or observant tone regarding a discrepancy in behavior.
Examples
彼女は人前では猫を被っているが、家ではかなりのやんちゃだ。
She acts innocent in public, but at home she is quite a handful.
猫を被っていても、いつかは本性がばれるものだ。
Even if you hide your true self, your real nature will eventually be revealed.
初対面の時は猫を被っていたが、慣れてくるとだんだん本性が出てきた。
They were acting very polite when we first met, but as they got used to me, their true nature started to show.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
Uses vocabulary like 'cat' and 'to wear', but the meaning is entirely idiomatic and the usage of 'kaburu' in this context is specific to character.
猫
ねこ / neko
cat
被る
かぶる / kaburu
to wear (on the head); to put on
本性
ほんしょう / honshou
true nature; real character
Usage Profile
Usage note: Calling someone out for 'wearing a cat' can be perceived as an accusation of being fake.
Misread Risk
This does not mean literally wearing a cat-shaped hat; it is a metaphor for behavioral acting.
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Source Note
Where did this entry get its data from? The reference links are listed below. To understand how to read this section, see Data Sources.