Differences between cover up and rough up
Cover up means to hide or conceal something, while rough up means to treat someone roughly or violently.
Meanings and Definitions: cover up vs rough up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Cover up
- 1Conceal, try to stop people finding out.
They tried to COVER UP the incident but it got into the newspapers.
Rough up
- 1Assault.
The mugger ROUGHED him UP when he refused to hand his wallet over.
Usage Examples: cover up, rough up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
cover up
Example
The company tried to cover up the accident to avoid bad publicity.
Example
He always covers up his mistakes instead of admitting them.
rough up
Example
The bullies threatened to rough up the new kid.
Example
He roughs up anyone who disagrees with him.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cover up
To hide or keep something secret from others.
Example
She tried to conceal her disappointment when she didn't get the job.
To hide or disguise something by covering it up or making it appear different.
Example
He tried to mask his nervousness by smiling and acting confident.
To hide or blend in with one's surroundings or environment.
Example
The soldiers used their uniforms to camouflage themselves in the forest during the training exercise.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Rough up
beat up
To physically assault or attack someone.
Example
The gang members beat up the innocent bystander for no reason.
To handle someone roughly or without care, often resulting in physical harm or discomfort.
Example
The security guard manhandled the suspect while trying to apprehend him.
To play or engage in physical activity in a rough or boisterous manner.
Example
The kids loved to roughhouse in the backyard and play fight with each other.
Differences in cover up vs rough up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: cover up or rough up?
In daily conversation, people use cover up more often than rough up. This is because cover up is used for more common situations such as hiding a mistake or covering a wound. Rough up is not used as much and is considered more informal.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cover up and rough up
Cover up and rough up are both informal phrases often used in casual conversations. However, rough up is considered more informal and can be seen as aggressive or confrontational. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of cover up and rough up
The tone of cover up and rough up can differ based on context. Cover up often carries a secretive or defensive tone when related to hiding something, while rough up typically has a forceful and aggressive tone, especially when referring to physical violence.