covered face

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phrase

   A face that is hidden or partly hidden by cloth, a mask, a veil, or something similar.

   Grammar: Used as a noun phrase; it describes a state, so it often follows 'with' or a verb like 'have'.

   Patterns

   • with a covered face
   • have a covered face
   • a partially covered face

   She entered the clinic with a covered face to avoid being photographed.

   In many cultures, a covered face at a funeral signals respect and grief.

   The security camera showed a figure with a covered face walking past the gate.

2. 2phrasebefore a noun

   Used about a person whose face is concealed, especially for religious, medical, or protective reasons.

   Grammar: Comes before a noun when describing someone: 'a covered-face patient'; after 'be' it describes the person.

   Patterns

   • a covered-face worker
   • be covered-face

   Covered-face workers in the lab must still wear goggles over their masks.

   The rule applies to any covered-face visitor entering the building.

Common combinations

with a covered face

He answered the door with a covered face, embarrassed by his sunburn.

a partially covered face

A partially covered face can still be recognized by the eyes.

leave the face covered

Doctors may leave the face covered while treating a burn.

covered face and hands

The protesters stood with covered faces and hands raised.

Synonyms and how they differ

masked

Describes someone wearing a mask; 'covered face' is broader and can include a scarf or veil.

veiled

Specifically about a veil, often worn by women; 'covered face' does not say what covers it.

hidden face

Focuses on not being seen at all, while 'covered face' just means something is over it.

Opposites

Word family

cover verb

To put something over an object or person.

covering noun

Something that covers or hides a surface.

coverage noun

The extent to which something is covered or reported.

Commonly confused: covered face or covered-faced?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “covered face”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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