When it comes to makeup, understanding the names of different products is essential, especially if you find yourself shopping or seeking beauty advice in a Portuguese-speaking country. If you’re looking to learn how to say “mascara” in Portuguese, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ll cover both the formal and informal ways to say mascara in Portuguese, providing you with plenty of tips, examples, and even regional variations where necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Mascara
Let’s begin with the formal ways to say mascara in Portuguese. These are suitable for use in most situations, whether you’re talking to someone you just met, a business associate, or simply want to maintain a polite conversation.
1. Rímel
The most common and widely recognized term for mascara in Portuguese is “rímel.” This term is used throughout Portugal and Brazil and is easily understood by Portuguese speakers across the world. So, if you’re wondering how to ask for mascara at a cosmetic store, simply use the word “rímel.”
Example: “Por favor, você poderia me mostrar alguns modelos de rímel?” (Could you please show me some models of mascara?)
2. Máscara de Pestanas
In more formal contexts or in European Portuguese, you might come across the term “máscara de pestanas” as an alternative to “rímel.” While less commonly used than “rímel,” this term is still perfectly acceptable when referring to mascara, specifically in Portugal.
Example: “A senhora tem alguma máscara de pestanas à prova d’água?” (Do you have any waterproof mascara?)
Informal Ways to Say Mascara
Now, let’s move on to the informal ways to say mascara. These terms are more commonly used in casual conversations, among friends and family members, or in relaxed settings.
1. Mascara
Yes, you heard it right! The term “mascara” (pronounced “mahs-kah-rah”) itself is also used informally in Portuguese. It is a straightforward adaptation of the English word “mascara” into Portuguese. While it might not be considered the most formal way to express it, it’s widely understood and used in everyday conversations.
Example: “Eu preciso comprar uma nova mascara para os olhos.” (I need to buy a new mascara for my eyes.)
Regional Variations
Although the terms mentioned above are widely understood in both Portugal and Brazil, there can be slight regional variations in different Portuguese-speaking countries.
1. Portugal
In Portugal, the term “rímel” is the most commonly used one, but you might also come across the term “máscara para pestanas.”
2. Brazil
In Brazil, “rímel” is by far the most prevalent and recognized term. However, it is worth noting that some Brazilians might simply opt for using the English word “mascara,” especially among younger generations.
Tips when Talking About Mascara in Portuguese
1. Pronunciation
Knowing how to pronounce words correctly is crucial for effective communication. In Portuguese, remember to pronounce “rímel” as “hee-mehl” and “máscara” as “mahs-kah-rah.”
2. Clarify the Context
If you’re in a situation where the word “mascara” alone might cause confusion, you may consider adding additional context, such as “máscara para os olhos” (mascara for the eyes) or “máscara de cílios” (mascara for the eyelashes).
3. Ask for Recommendations
If you need help choosing a specific type of mascara, don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. Here’s an example phrase you can use:
Example: “Você poderia me indicar uma boa marca de rímel?” (Could you recommend me a good brand of mascara?)
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve just learned how to say “mascara” in Portuguese. Now you can confidently communicate about this essential beauty product. Remember to use “rímel” or “máscara de pestanas” in formal situations, and feel free to use “mascara” in casual conversations. If you encounter any regional variations, such as “máscara para pestanas” in Portugal or the use of the English word “mascara” in Brazil, you’re now well-equipped to understand and adapt to these differences. Enjoy your conversations about mascara in Portuguese!
