Meaning and Usage
"表紙" (ひょうし) refers specifically to the front cover of a book, magazine, or similar publication. It is the outermost page that protects the contents and often features the title, images, or other design elements.
Common Contexts
You will often hear "表紙" when talking about books, magazines, or notebooks. For example, describing the design or condition of a book's cover, or mentioning who appears on a magazine's cover.
Collocations and Patterns
- 表紙をめくる: to turn over the cover, often to see inside pages like the table of contents.
- 表紙に載る: to appear on the cover, commonly used for celebrities or featured articles.
- 表紙が破れる: the cover is torn, describing damage.
Register and Usage Notes
"表紙" is a neutral, standard term used in both casual and formal contexts. It is not used for covers of objects other than publications (e.g., not for a box or a door).
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "表紙" with "カバー" (cover) which can mean a removable protective cover or dust jacket. "表紙" is the actual printed front page, while "カバー" often refers to a separate protective layer over the "表紙." Understanding this distinction helps in precise communication.