covering letter (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/kʌv(ə)rɪŋ ˈlɛtə/

Meaning and Usage

A covering letter, often referred to as a cover letter, is a document sent with a job application that introduces the applicant and explains their interest in the position. It typically outlines qualifications and expresses why the candidate is a suitable fit for the role. Covering letters are essential in the job application process, enhancing the applicant's chances of securing an interview.

Frequency of Use

The term "covering letter" is commonly used in both written and oral contexts, particularly in professional and academic discussions related to job applications.

Example Sentences

1. I sent my CV along with my covering letter to the hiring manager.

2. Envié mi currículum junto con mi carta de presentación al gerente de contratación.

3. The covering letter should highlight your most relevant experiences.

4. La carta de presentación debe resaltar tus experiencias más relevantes.

5. She spent hours perfecting her covering letter before submitting her application.

6. Ella pasó horas perfeccionando su carta de presentación antes de enviar su solicitud.

Idiomatic Expressions

The term "cover" appears in various idioms and expressions that might not directly relate to a "covering letter" but illustrate its meaning through figurative language.

1. Cover your bases - To take precautions to prevent problems later on.
2. It's wise to cover your bases by researching the company before the interview.

3. Es prudente cubrir tus bases investigando la empresa antes de la entrevista.

4. Cover to cover - To read something in its entirety.

5. I read the application guidelines cover to cover before sending my materials.

6. Leí las pautas de solicitud de principio a fin antes de enviar mis materiales.

7. Cover up - To hide or conceal something.

8. She needed to cover up her previous job experiences in the covering letter.

9. Ella necesitaba ocultar sus experiencias laborales previas en la carta de presentación.

10. Cover for someone - To take someone's place or responsibilities temporarily.

11. Can you cover for me while I finalize my covering letter?
12. ¿Puedes cubrirme mientras finalizo mi carta de presentación?

Etymology

The term "covering letter" derives from the word "cover," which comes from the Old French couvrer, meaning "to cover," combined with "letter," which comes from the Latin litera, meaning "letter of the alphabet." The usage of the term in the context of job applications gained traction in the late 20th century.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Cover letter - Application letter - Letter of introduction

Antonyms: - None directly. However, the opposite context might imply "rejection letter" related to the outcomes of job applications.