Plaster over

verb

To cover or hide faults, problems or unpleasant things with something which seems better but is often not effective.

They simply plastered over the relationship problems with smiles and cheap gifts.
Visual representation of "plaster over" - To cover or hide faults, problems or unpleasant things with something which seems better but is often not effective.

Often appears as...

  • plaster over problems
  • plaster over fault

Usage tips

Idiomatic

verb

To put plaster on a surface to make it smooth and ready for painting or wallpapering.

Before we can paint the room, we need to plaster over the holes in the wall.
Visual representation of "plaster over" - To put plaster on a surface to make it smooth and ready for painting or wallpapering.

Often appears as...

  • plaster over holes
  • plaster over cracks
verb

To cover or hide faults, problems or unpleasant things with something which seems better but is often not effective.

They simply plastered over the relationship problems with smiles and cheap gifts.
Visual representation of "plaster over" - To cover or hide faults, problems or unpleasant things with something which seems better but is often not effective.

Often appears as...

  • plaster over problems
  • plaster over fault

Usage tips

Idiomatic

verb

To put plaster on a surface to make it smooth and ready for painting or wallpapering.

Before we can paint the room, we need to plaster over the holes in the wall.
Visual representation of "plaster over" - To put plaster on a surface to make it smooth and ready for painting or wallpapering.

Often appears as...

  • plaster over holes
  • plaster over cracks
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "plaster over"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

The phrase often conveys concealing true issues with temporary fixes.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
The policy changes merely plastered over deep societal issues.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Connotation

It implies the solution is superficial and possibly deceptive.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The company plastered over the scandal with a public apology.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Idiomatic Subtlety

Pay attention to context; it's not always literal, often figurative.

Illustration for Idiomatic Subtlety
The happy photos plastered over her true feelings of loneliness.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

The phrase often conveys concealing true issues with temporary fixes.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
The policy changes merely plastered over deep societal issues.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Connotation

It implies the solution is superficial and possibly deceptive.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The company plastered over the scandal with a public apology.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Idiomatic Subtlety

Pay attention to context; it's not always literal, often figurative.

Illustration for Idiomatic Subtlety
The happy photos plastered over her true feelings of loneliness.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

The phrase often conveys concealing true issues with temporary fixes.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
The policy changes merely plastered over deep societal issues.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Connotation

It implies the solution is superficial and possibly deceptive.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The company plastered over the scandal with a public apology.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Idiomatic Subtlety

Pay attention to context; it's not always literal, often figurative.

Illustration for Idiomatic Subtlety
The happy photos plastered over her true feelings of loneliness.
Visual representation of the word "Plaster over"

Never forget "Plaster over"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top