メイク
meiku[me̞ikɯ̟]
The English word "makeup" can be translated into Japanese as メイク (meiku). Wiktionary also lists 化粧 (keshō) and メイクアップ (meikuappu).
Meaning: cosmetics, colorants and other substances applied to the skin to alter its appearance (noun)
Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| メイク | meiku | [me̞ikɯ̟] (narrow) |
| 化粧 | keshō | [ke̞ɕo̞ː] (narrow) [ke̞so̞ː] (narrow) |
| メイクアップ | meikuappu | [me̞ikɯ̟a̠p̚pɯ̟] (narrow) |
The term refers to cosmetics or substances applied to the skin to alter its appearance. In more formal or technical contexts, such as referring to the products themselves, you may encounter 化粧品 (keshōhin), which specifically means cosmetics.
Which one should you use?
メイク is the katakana form of the English word and is more common in casual, everyday conversation and fashion contexts than the more formal 化粧.
How does it change in a sentence?
If you want to say that someone is currently wearing makeup, use the continuous form メイクをしている.
How do you pronounce it?
meiku
What mistakes should you avoid?
When describing someone wearing an excessive amount of makeup, the term 厚化粧 (atsugeshō) is often used, but be aware that it carries a slightly critical nuance.
Did you know?
- In Japanese, the phrase すっぴん (suppin) specifically refers to a completely bare face without any メイク, and it is a very common term in beauty and fashion magazines.
- Historically, 化粧 involved the use of shironuri, a thick white powder made from rice or lead, which became iconic in traditional Kabuki theater.
- The word 化粧 originally comes from the term 気配 (kewai), which refers to one's 'presence' or 'indication' of appearance. It suggests that cosmetics are not just substances, but a way to signal an intention or an atmosphere to others.
Examples in context
- 化粧してるの？Are you wearing makeup?This sentence is useful for asking if someone is wearing 化粧.Tatoeba #8814824 by bunbuku, translation #2646103 by CK
- お化粧は一切しないの。I don't wear makeup at all.This sentence is useful for stating that one does not use 化粧.Tatoeba #10110256 by bunbuku, translation #2320386 by Hybrid
- 彼女、厚化粧なんだよ。She wears heavy makeup.This sentence is useful for describing someone wearing heavy 化粧.Tatoeba #10747903 by bunbuku, translation #316030 by CK
- 彼女はいつも綺麗な化粧をしています。(Kanojo wa itsumo kirei na keshō o shiteimasu.)She always does lovely makeup.
- この化粧品は肌に優しいです。(Kono keshōhin wa hada ni yasashii desu.)These cosmetics are gentle on the skin.
- 15 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
A woman is getting ready for a date at home.
- 陽葵 Himari今日のメイク、どうかな？kyou no meiku, dou kana?How is my makeup today?
- 健太 Kentaとても似合ってるよ。totemo niatteru yo.It suits you very well.
- 陽葵 Himari本当？よかった！hontou? yokatta!Really? I'm glad!
- 健太 Kenta陽葵は今日も綺麗だね。himari wa kyou mo kirei dane.You look beautiful today too, Himari.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “makeup” translations and entries メイク, 化粧, メイクアップ, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries メイク, メイクアップ, 化粧, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
