化粧
化粧 refers to the products and practices used to enhance one's appearance.
Explanation at your level:
化粧 (keshō) is a word for makeup! Makeup is the colorful stuff like lipstick and eyeshadow that people sometimes put on their face to look nice. You can use 化粧 to talk about the makeup itself, or the action of putting it on. For example, 'I put on makeup' is Keshō o shimasu. It's like drawing or coloring on your face to look pretty!
化粧 (keshō) means makeup or cosmetics. It refers to products like foundation, blush, and mascara that people use to enhance their appearance. You can talk about the products themselves (化粧品 - keshōhin) or the act of applying them (化粧をする - keshō o suru). For example, 'She is good at applying makeup' is Kanojo wa keshō ga jōzu desu. It's a common word used in daily life when discussing beauty and personal grooming.
化粧 (keshō) is the Japanese word for makeup or cosmetics. It encompasses a wide range of beauty products and the process of applying them to alter or enhance one's appearance. You might hear phrases like 化粧をする (keshō o suru - to put on makeup) or 化粧を落とす (keshō o otosu - to remove makeup). It's frequently used when discussing personal routines, fashion, and social occasions. For instance, 'I need to buy some new makeup' could be expressed as Atarashii keshō-hin o kai ni ikitai desu (I want to go buy new cosmetics).
化粧 (keshō) refers to makeup and cosmetics, including the products and the act of application. It's a versatile term used in various contexts, from daily routines to professional settings like acting or fashion modeling. Understanding its nuances is key. For example, while 化粧 is the general term, 化粧品 (keshōhin) specifically refers to cosmetic products. The phrase 化粧直し (keshō naoshi) means 'touching up makeup'. It's important to note that the cultural perception and usage of 化粧 can vary, but it remains a fundamental concept in discussions of beauty and presentation in Japan.
化粧 (keshō) signifies makeup and cosmetics, encompassing both the substances applied and the practice of beautification. Beyond its literal meaning, it can imply a transformation or presentation strategy. For example, 化粧をする (keshō o suru) is the standard phrase for applying makeup, while 化粧を落とす (keshō o otosu) means to remove it. The term 化粧直し (keshō naoshi) refers to the act of reapplying or touching up makeup throughout the day. Culturally, 化粧 can be associated with social expectations, professional requirements, and artistic expression, ranging from subtle enhancements to dramatic transformations for performance.
化粧 (keshō) is a multifaceted term denoting makeup and cosmetics, encompassing the products, the application process, and the resulting aesthetic enhancement or transformation. Its etymology, combining 'transform' (化) and 'adorn' (粧), highlights its core function. Beyond everyday usage like 化粧をする (to apply makeup) or 化粧を落とす (to remove makeup), the term appears in contexts exploring identity, social performance, and cultural standards of beauty. For instance, 化粧品 (keshōhin) refers to the products themselves, while 化粧直し (keshō naoshi) signifies touch-ups. The historical and cultural significance of 化粧 in Japan, from ancient beautification practices to modern cosmetics industry, adds depth to its understanding, allowing for discussions on its role in self-expression, social signaling, and artistic endeavors.
Wort in 30 Sekunden
- 化粧 (keshō) means makeup or cosmetics.
- It refers to both the products and the act of applying them.
- Common phrases include 化粧をする (to apply makeup) and 化粧を落とす (to remove makeup).
- It's a versatile word used in daily life, fashion, and performing arts.
Hey there! Let's dive into the world of 化粧 (keshō). You've probably heard this word used to talk about makeup or cosmetics, and that's exactly what it means! Think of all those amazing products like lipstick, eyeshadow, foundation, and blush – they all fall under the umbrella of 化粧. It's not just about the products, though; it's also about the act of applying them. People use 化粧 for all sorts of reasons. Sometimes it's for everyday life, to feel a bit more put-together, or to highlight their best features. Other times, it's for big events, like parties or weddings, where people want to look their absolute best. And of course, in theatre and film, 化粧 is a crucial tool for transforming actors into different characters!
The concept of enhancing one's appearance through various substances is ancient and universal, but the modern understanding of 化粧 is closely tied to the development of the cosmetics industry. It's fascinating how something as simple as applying color or texture to the skin can have such a profound impact on how we present ourselves and how we feel. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, 化粧 is a versatile way to express yourself and boost your confidence. It’s a form of art and personal expression, allowing individuals to play with their look and craft a desired image. So, next time you see or use makeup, remember the rich meaning behind the word 化粧!
The word 化粧 (keshō) itself has a fascinating origin that reflects its meaning. The kanji characters tell a story. '化' (ke) means 'to transform' or 'to change', and '粧' (shō) means 'to adorn' or 'to dress up'. Put them together, and you get the idea of transforming oneself through adornment. This perfectly captures the essence of applying makeup – changing your appearance to look more beautiful or to fit a certain role.
The history of cosmetics is incredibly long, stretching back thousands of years across different cultures. Ancient Egyptians used kohl for eyeliner and ochre for lip and cheek color. The Romans and Greeks also had their own versions of makeup. In Japan, where the word 化粧 originates, historical records show that women have used various substances for beautification for centuries, including rice powder for whitening the skin and pigments derived from plants and minerals. Over time, as trade and cultural exchange increased, so did the variety of cosmetic ingredients and techniques. The industrial revolution and the 20th century saw a massive boom in the cosmetics industry, leading to the sophisticated products we have today. The word 化粧 has evolved alongside these developments, becoming the standard term for all things makeup and cosmetics in modern Japanese.
So, how do we actually use 化粧 in a sentence? It's pretty straightforward! As a noun, it refers to the makeup itself or the act of applying it. You'll often hear it used in everyday conversations. For example, someone might say, “朝、化粧に時間がかかった” (Asa, keshō ni jikan ga kakatta), meaning “It took a long time to do my makeup this morning.” This shows 化粧 used as the act of applying makeup.
You can also use it to talk about specific types of makeup or the overall concept. For instance, “彼女はいつもきれいな化粧をしている” (Kanojo wa itsumo kirei na keshō o shite iru) translates to “She always wears beautiful makeup.” Here, 化粧 refers to the finished look. We also see it in phrases like “化粧品” (keshōhin), which means cosmetic products or makeup items. When talking about removing makeup, you might hear “化粧を落とす” (keshō o otosu). The formality of 化粧 is generally neutral; it’s used in both casual and slightly more formal settings without much adjustment. It’s a versatile word that fits comfortably into discussions about personal appearance, fashion, and beauty routines.
While 化粧 itself is a direct term, it appears in various expressions and contexts that add color to its meaning. Here are a few ways the concept of 'making up' or 'transforming' appears:
- 見かけ倒し (mikakedōshi): This literally means 'a deceptive appearance'. While not directly using 化粧, it relates to how appearance can be misleading. It's like saying someone looks great (perhaps due to good化粧), but their actual abilities or character don't match up. Example: 彼の話はいつも立派だが、実際は見かけ倒しだ。(Kare no hanashi wa itsumo rippa da ga, jissai wa mikakedōshi da.) - His stories are always grand, but in reality, he's all talk and no action.
- 着飾る (kikazaru): This verb means 'to dress up' or 'to adorn oneself'. It often implies using clothing and, by extension, makeup (化粧) to look fancy or impressive for a special occasion. Example: パーティーのために、彼女は華やかに着飾った。(Pātī no tame ni, kanojo wa hanayaka ni kikazatta.) - She dressed up glamorously for the party.
- 化ける (bakeru): This verb means 'to transform' or 'to disguise oneself'. It can be used literally for someone changing their appearance drastically (perhaps with heavy 化粧 for a costume party) or figuratively for someone changing their nature or pretending to be someone else. Example: 彼はコスプレで全く違う人物に化けた。(Kare wa kosupure de mattaku chigau jinbutsu ni baketa.) - He transformed into a completely different person with his cosplay.
- 上辺だけ (uwabemura dake): Meaning 'only the surface' or 'superficial'. This expression criticizes focusing only on outward appearance (like化粧) without considering the inner substance. Example: 彼の優しさは上辺だけだとすぐにわかった。(Kare no yasashisa wa uwabemura dake da to sugu ni wakatta.) - I quickly realized his kindness was only skin deep.
- 七難隠す化粧 (shichinan kakusu keshō): This is a more traditional saying, meaning 'makeup that hides seven flaws'. It refers to the power of good化粧 to conceal imperfections and enhance beauty. Example: 熟練した化粧は七難隠すと言われている。(Jukuren shita keshō wa shichinan kakusu to iwarete iru.) - It is said that skilled makeup can hide seven flaws.
Let's break down the pronunciation and grammar of 化粧 (keshō). The word is pronounced 'keh-shoh'. In Japanese phonetics, it has three morae (often perceived as syllables): ke-shi-o-u. The 'shō' sound is a long 'o' sound, similar to how you might say 'show' but with a slightly longer vowel. When speaking, try to give a little more length to that final 'oh' sound. Native speakers often stress the first syllable slightly, making it sound like KEH-shoh.
Grammatically, 化粧 functions as a noun. It's generally treated as an uncountable noun in the sense of 'makeup' as a general concept or 'the act of applying makeup'. You don't typically say 'one化粧, two化粧'. When referring to specific makeup items, the word 化粧品 (keshōhin) is used, which is countable. For example, you might buy 'several makeup items' (いくつかの化粧品 - ikutsuka no keshōhin). When talking about the action, you often use it with verbs like する (suru - to do) or 落とす (otosu - to remove). For instance, 化粧をする (keshō o suru) means 'to apply makeup', and 化粧を落とす (keshō o otosu) means 'to remove makeup'. There aren't really plural forms for 化粧 itself in the way English has 'makeups'. The context usually makes it clear whether you're talking about the general concept or the act.
Fun Fact
The kanji 粧 itself is composed of '女' (woman) and '爿' (bed/platform), possibly suggesting adornment related to a woman's private space or preparation.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'keh-SHOW', with the emphasis on the second syllable and a long 'oh' sound.
Similar to UK, 'keh-SHOH', with a clear emphasis on the second, longer 'oh' sound.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing 'shō' as a short 'o'.
- Not stressing the second syllable ('shō').
- Adding an extra syllable sound where there isn't one.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
fairly easy to read
fairly easy to write
fairly easy to speak
fairly easy to listen
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Fortgeschritten
Grammar to Know
Using particles 'o' (を) and 'ni' (に)
化粧をする (object 'o'), 顔にする (location 'ni')
Verb conjugation: Masu-form and Te-form
します (shimasu) -> して (shite)
Using 'na' adjectives
きれいな化粧 (kirei na keshō)
Examples by Level
これは化粧です。
This is makeup.
This is a basic sentence structure: 'This is X'.
化粧をします。
Makeup I-do.
The particle 'o' marks the direct object of the verb 'shimasu'.
きれいな化粧。
Pretty makeup.
Adjectives like 'kirei na' (pretty) come before the noun.
リップスティックは化粧です。
Lipstick is makeup.
Using 'wa' to introduce the topic of the sentence.
顔に化粧をします。
Face-on makeup I-do.
The particle 'ni' indicates the location of the action.
化粧品はたくさんあります。
Cosmetic-products many exist.
'Takusan arimasu' means 'there are many'.
化粧を落とします。
Makeup I-remove.
'Otosu' means to drop or remove.
これは私の化粧です。
This is my makeup.
'Watashi no' means 'my'.
毎朝、彼女は化粧をします。
Every morning, she makeup does.
Adverbs of time like 'maiasa' (every morning) often come at the beginning of the sentence.
この化粧品はとても人気があります。
This cosmetic-product very popular is.
'Jōzu desu' (is skillful) can be used for applying makeup well.
化粧を落とすのを忘れました。
Makeup remove-gerund forget-did.
The nominalizer 'no' turns the verb phrase into a noun.
彼女の化粧はいつも自然です。
Her makeup is always natural.
'Shizen' (natural) is a common adjective used to describe makeup.
特別な日のために化粧をします。
Special day for makeup I-do.
'Tame ni' means 'for the purpose of'.
化粧水と乳液はスキンケアの基本です。
Toner and lotion are skincare's basics.
While not directly 'keshō', these are related beauty products.
彼は舞台化粧を学びました。
He stage-makeup learned.
'Butai' means stage or theater.
化粧ポーチをどこに置きましたか？
Makeup pouch where put-did?
'Pōchi' is a loanword from English 'pouch'.
新しい化粧品を探しにデパートへ行きました。
New cosmetics search-to department-store to went.
The structure '-ni iku' means 'to go to do something'.
彼女は化粧の技術がとても高い。
Her makeup skill very high is.
'Gijutsu ga takai' means 'skill is high'.
パーティーでは、いつもより派手な化粧をします。
Party-at, usual-than flashy makeup I-do.
'Hade na' means flashy or showy.
化粧を直すために、トイレに行きました。
Makeup fix-to, restroom to went.
'Naosu' means to fix or repair; 化粧直し is touching up makeup.
最近は男性用の化粧品も増えていますね。
Recently men-for cosmetic-products also increasing are, right?
'-Yō' means 'for the use of'.
すっぴんの顔に自信がないので、いつも化粧をします。
Bare-face's face-on confidence not have so, always makeup I-do.
'Suppin' means bare face, without makeup.
この化粧水は肌にとても良いらしいです。
This lotion skin-to very good seems.
'-Rashii desu' expresses that something seems to be the case.
彼女の化粧は、彼女の個性を引き立てている。
Her makeup, her personality enhances.
'Hikitateru' means to set off or enhance.
舞台女優にとって、化粧はキャラクターを表現する上で不可欠な要素です。
Stage actress for, makeup is character express in indispensable element is.
'Fukaketsu na' means indispensable or essential.
彼女は化粧品の効果について専門的な知識を持っている。
She cosmetic-products' effects about expert knowledge possesses.
'Senmonteki na chishiki' means specialized or expert knowledge.
最近のトレンドでは、過度な化粧よりもナチュラルメイクが好まれる傾向にある。
Recent trends-in, excessive makeup than natural makeup preferred tendency exists.
'Kado na' means excessive or extreme.
彼は化粧品会社のマーケティング戦略についてプレゼンテーションを行った。
He cosmetic-products company's marketing strategy about presentation conducted.
'Māketingu senryaku' is the loanword for marketing strategy.
化粧の技術は、時代とともに大きく変化してきた。
Makeup's technique, times-with greatly changed has.
'Jidai to tomo ni' means along with the times.
化粧品に含まれる成分によっては、肌に合わない人もいる。
Cosmetic-products contain ingredients-depending-on, skin-to suit-not people exist.
'-Ni yotte wa' means depending on or based on.
彼女のメイクアップアーティストとしてのキャリアは、才能と努力の賜物だ。
Her makeup artist as career, talent and effort's gift is.
'Tsumamono' means a gift, fruit, or result of effort.
現代社会において、化粧は自己表現の一形態と見なされることが多い。
Modern society-in, makeup is self-expression's one form considered often.
'Jiko hyōgen' means self-expression.
彼女の化粧は、単なる外見の装飾を超え、内面の感情を映し出す鏡のようであった。
Her makeup, merely outward appearance's decoration beyond, inner emotions reflect mirror like was.
'Gaiken no sōshoku' means outward adornment.
化粧品業界では、持続可能性と倫理的な調達がますます重視されるようになっている。
Cosmetics industry-in, sustainability and ethical sourcing increasingly emphasized becoming.
'Jizoku kanōsei' (sustainability) and 'rinri-teki na chōtatsu' (ethical sourcing) are key terms.
その俳優は、役柄に合わせて驚くほど多様な化粧を使い分けることができる。
That actor, role-fittingly surprisingly diverse makeup use-distinguish can.
'Tsukai wakeru' means to use different things appropriately for different situations.
化粧の文化史を紐解くと、その時代の社会規範や美意識が浮かび上がってくる。
Makeup's cultural history unravel-if, that era's social norms and aesthetic sense emerge.
'Chōwa' (norms) and 'biishiki' (aesthetic sense) are important concepts.
彼は、化粧品広告におけるステレオタイプなジェンダー表現に疑問を呈した。
He, cosmetic advertisements-in stereotypical gender representations-on doubt presented.
'Sutereotaipu na jendā hyōgen' refers to stereotypical gender representation.
デジタル技術の進化は、化粧のシミュレーションやバーチャル試着といった新たな可能性を切り開いている。
Digital technology's evolution, makeup's simulation and virtual try-on like new possibilities opening.
'Bācharu shichaku' is virtual try-on.
化粧品に含まれる微細なプラスチック粒子（マイクロビーズ）の環境への影響が懸念されている。
Cosmetics contain fine plastic particles (microbeads)' environmental impact is concern.
'Bisaiteki na purasuchikku ryūshi' are microplastics.
彼女の芸術的な化粧は、見る者に強い印象を与え、しばしば議論を呼ぶ。
Her artistic makeup, viewers-to strong impression gives, often discussion invites.
'Ronryū o yobu' means to invite discussion or controversy.
化粧という行為は、単なる美容的実践に留まらず、自己のアイデンティティ構築や社会的メッセージの発信といった多層的な意味合いを内包している。
Makeup the act, merely aesthetic practice-in stay-not, self's identity construction and social message's transmission like multi-layered meanings contains.
'Naihō shite iru' means to contain or embody.
近世における化粧文化の変遷を考察すると、権力構造や階級間の相互作用が色濃く反映されていることがわかる。
Early-modern period-in makeup culture's transition examine-if, that era's power structures and class-between interactions strongly reflected evident.
'Kinsei' refers to the early modern period; 'henten' is transition or change.
化粧品成分の安全性評価における動物実験の是非は、倫理的観点から長らく議論の的となってきた。
Cosmetic ingredients' safety assessment-in animal testing's right-or-wrong, ethical viewpoint-from long-time debate's target become.
'Zehi' means the rights and wrongs or pros and cons.
彼女の化粧は、古典的な美学と現代的なアヴァンギャルドな感性が融合した、他に類を見ない芸術的表現であった。
Her makeup, classical aesthetics and modern avant-garde sensibility fused, unparalleled artistic expression was.
'Avan-gyarudo na' is the loanword for avant-garde.
化粧品広告における表象文化の研究は、消費社会における自己イメージ形成のメカニズムを解明する上で重要な示唆を与える。
Cosmetic advertisements-in representation culture's study, consumer society-in self-image formation's mechanism elucidate-in important hints gives.
'Hyōshō bunka' is representation culture; 'kaimei suru' means to elucidate or clarify.
近年注目されている「クリーンビューティー」の概念は、化粧品が環境や人体に与える影響に対する意識の高まりを反映している。
Recent years-in attention receiving 'clean beauty' concept, cosmetics environment and human body-on exert influence-regarding awareness's rise reflects.
'Kuriin byūtī' is the loanword for clean beauty.
化粧の変遷を辿ることは、女性の社会的地位や自己認識の変化の歴史を垣間見ることにも等しい。
Makeup's transition trace-doing, women's social status and self-perception change's history glimpse-seeing-to equal.
'Kakamimieru' means to catch a glimpse of.
そのパフォーマンスにおける化粧は、単なる変装ではなく、登場人物の内面葛藤を視覚的に言語化する試みであった。
That performance-in makeup, mere disguise not, character's inner conflict visually verbalize attempt was.
'Naiteki kattō' means inner conflict.
Häufige Kollokationen
Idioms & Expressions
"七難隠す化粧"
Makeup that hides seven flaws; implying makeup's power to conceal imperfections.
熟練した化粧は<strong>七難隠す</strong>と言われるほどだ。(Jukuren shita keshō wa shichinan kakusu to iwareru hodo da.) - Skilled makeup is said to be powerful enough to hide seven flaws.
literary/proverbial"化ける (bakeru)"
To transform or disguise oneself, often implying a drastic change in appearance, potentially through makeup.
彼女はコスチュームで全く別の人物に<strong>化けた</strong>。(Kanojo wa kosuchūmu de mattaku betsu no jinbutsu ni baketa.) - She transformed into a completely different person with her costume.
neutral"見かけ倒し (mikakedōshi)"
Deceptive appearance; looking good on the surface but lacking substance.
彼の話はいつも立派だが、<strong>見かけ倒し</strong>だ。(Kare no hanashi wa itsumo rippa da ga, mikakedōshi da.) - His stories are always grand, but it's all for show.
neutral/casual"着飾る (kikazaru)"
To dress up or adorn oneself, often implying the use of fancy clothes and makeup for a special occasion.
結婚式のために、彼女は華やかに<strong>着飾った</strong>。(Kekkonshiki no tame ni, kanojo wa hanayaka ni kikazatta.) - She dressed up glamorously for the wedding.
neutral"上辺だけ (uwabemura dake)"
Only the surface; superficial. Can refer to focusing only on outward appearance like makeup.
彼の優しさは<strong>上辺だけ</strong>のものだった。(Kare no yasashisa wa uwabemura dake no mono datta.) - His kindness was only superficial.
neutral/casual"素顔をさらす (sugao o sarasu)"
To reveal one's true face or self, often implying without makeup or pretense.
彼女は親しい友人には<strong>素顔をさらす</strong>ことができる。(Kanojo wa shitashii yūjin ni wa sugao o sarasu koto ga dekiru.) - She can show her true self to close friends.
neutralEasily Confused
Both refer to makeup and are loanwords/concepts from English.
化粧 is the native Japanese term, while メイクアップ (meikuappu) is a direct loanword from English 'makeup'. 化粧 is more formal and encompassing, while メイクアップ is very common in casual conversation and media.
彼女は<strong>化粧</strong>が上手だ。(Kanojo wa keshō ga jōzu da.) - Her makeup skills are good. / 今日の<strong>メイクアップ</strong>、いいね！(Kyō no meikuappu, ii ne!) - Your makeup today looks great!
Both can refer to things that enhance appearance.
装飾品 (sōshokuhin) literally means 'decorative items' and more commonly refers to jewelry, accessories, or other ornaments. While it *can* broadly include makeup in a very formal or literary sense, 化粧 is the specific and standard term for makeup.
彼女は顔に<strong>化粧</strong>をした。(Kanojo wa kao ni keshō o shita.) - She put makeup on her face. / 彼女は首に<strong>装飾品</strong>（ネックレス）をつけた。(Kanojo wa kubi ni sōshokuhin (nekkuresu) o tsuketa.) - She wore an adornment (necklace) on her neck.
Both involve changing one's appearance.
扮装 (funsō) means disguise or costume, implying a more significant transformation, often for performance or hiding identity. 化粧 is typically for enhancing or altering appearance in a more conventional beauty sense.
彼は舞台のために派手な<strong>化粧</strong>をした。(Kare wa butai no tame ni hade na keshō o shita.) - He wore flashy makeup for the stage. / 彼はハロウィンのために幽霊の<strong>扮装</strong>をした。(Kare wa harowin no tame ni yūrei no funsō o shita.) - He disguised himself as a ghost for Halloween.
They are direct opposites in meaning.
化粧 means makeup (the products or the act of applying it). すっぴん (suppin) means a bare face, without any makeup.
彼女は<strong>化粧</strong>をすると雰囲気が変わる。(Kanojo wa keshō o suru to fun'iki ga kawaru.) - Her vibe changes when she puts on makeup. / 私は<strong>すっぴん</strong>で出かけることが多い。(Watashi wa suppin de dekakeru koto ga ooi.) - I often go out without makeup.
Sentence Patterns
Noun + を + する
毎朝、化粧をする。(Maia, keshō o suru.) - I put on makeup every morning.
Noun + を + 落とす
寝る前に化粧を落とす。(Neru mae ni keshō o otosu.) - Remove makeup before sleeping.
Adjective + な + Noun
きれいな化粧をしている。(Kirei na keshō o shite iru.) - Wearing beautiful makeup.
Noun + は/が + Adjective + です
この化粧は自然です。(Kono keshō wa shizen desu.) - This makeup is natural.
Noun + に + 時間 + が + かかる
化粧に時間がかかる。(Keshō ni jikan ga kakaru.) - It takes time to do makeup.
Wortfamilie
Nouns
Verbs
Verwandt
How to Use It
8/10
Formality Scale
Häufige Fehler
化粧 is a noun. To express the action of applying makeup, you need to use it with the verb する (suru - to do).
化粧 refers to the general concept or the act, while 化粧品 specifically refers to the items themselves.
The macron over the 'o' in 'shō' indicates a long vowel sound, which is important for correct pronunciation.
化粧 itself is generally treated as uncountable. For multiple items, 化粧品 is used.
化粧 means makeup; すっぴん and 素顔 mean a face without makeup.
Tips
Sound Association
Link 'Kei-show' to 'Key Show'. Imagine a key unlocking a 'show' of transformation on your face.
Action Verb
Remember that 化粧 is a noun. To say 'apply makeup', use 化粧をする (keshō o suru).
Product vs. Act
Distinguish between 化粧 (makeup/act) and 化粧品 (cosmetic products) for clarity.
Long Vowel
Don't forget the long 'o' sound in 'shō' (け<strong>しょう</strong>). It's like saying 'show' but holding the 'o' slightly longer.
Avoid Direct Verb Use
Resist the urge to use 化粧 as a verb directly. Always pair it with する (suru) for the action.
Ancient Roots
The practice of using cosmetics (化粧) dates back thousands of years in Japan, with ingredients like rice powder and plant-based dyes being used historically.
Visual Learning
Watch Japanese beauty tutorials online and pay attention to how they use the word 化粧 and related terms.
Removing Makeup
Learn the essential phrase 化粧を落とす (keshō o otosu) - to remove makeup.
Word Family
Explore related words like 化粧水 (lotion) and 化粧直し (touch-up) to build vocabulary.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'Kei' (like 'key') opening the 'show' (shō) of your face, transforming it!
Visual Association
Imagine a key unlocking a door, and behind the door is a stage ('show') where your face is transformed with makeup.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try describing your daily makeup routine using the word 化粧.
Wortherkunft
Japanese
Original meaning: Transformation through adornment (化 = transform, 粧 = adorn/dress up)
Kultureller Kontext
While generally neutral, excessive or inappropriate makeup can sometimes be seen as unprofessional or attention-seeking depending on the context (e.g., a very formal business meeting vs. a party).
In English-speaking cultures, 'makeup' and 'cosmetics' are the standard terms. The cultural significance varies, from daily enhancement to artistic expression and professional requirements.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Daily Morning Routine
- 朝、化粧をする。(Asa, keshō o suru.) - Put on makeup in the morning.
- 化粧直しが必要だ。(Keshō naoshi ga hitsuyō da.) - Need to touch up makeup.
- 今日はすっぴんだ。(Kyō wa suppin da.) - I'm not wearing makeup today.
Shopping for Cosmetics
- 新しい化粧品を探しています。(Atarashii keshōhin o sagashite imasu.) - I'm looking for new cosmetics.
- この化粧水はいくらですか？(Kono keshōsui wa ikura desu ka?) - How much is this lotion?
- おすすめのファンデーションはありますか？(Osusume no fandēshon wa arimasu ka?) - Do you have any recommended foundations?
Social Events (Parties, Weddings)
- 特別な日の化粧をする。(Tokubetsu na hi no keshō o suru.) - Wear makeup for a special day.
- 彼女の化粧はいつも華やかだ。(Kanojo no keshō wa itsumo hanayaka da.) - Her makeup is always glamorous.
- パーティーメイクの仕方が知りたい。(Pātī meiku no shikata ga shiritai.) - I want to know how to do party makeup.
Performing Arts (Theatre, Film)
- 舞台化粧は重要だ。(Butai keshō wa jūyō da.) - Stage makeup is important.
- 役作りのために化粧をする。(Yaku-zukuri no tame ni keshō o suru.) - Apply makeup for character creation.
- 特殊メイクが必要だ。(Tokushu meiku ga hitsuyō da.) - Special effects makeup is needed.
Conversation Starters
"今日の化粧、すごくいいね！どこのリップを使ってるの？"
"最近、新しい化粧品に挑戦した？"
"忙しい朝、化粧にどれくらい時間かけてる？"
"すっぴんで出かけることに抵抗はある？"
"舞台や映画で見るような、特別な化粧についてどう思う？"
Journal Prompts
Describe your typical daily makeup routine. What products do you use and why?
Reflect on a time when makeup (化粧) made you feel more confident. What was the situation?
Imagine you could have any type of makeup artist create a look for you. What would it be and why?
Write about the cultural significance of makeup (化粧) in different societies you know of.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
8 Fragen化粧 (keshō) refers to the general concept of makeup or the act of applying it. 化粧品 (keshōhin) specifically refers to the cosmetic products themselves, like lipstick, foundation, etc.
Yes, increasingly so. While traditionally associated more with women, men also use makeup (化粧) for various reasons, including personal grooming, stage performances, and even daily enhancement. Terms like 'men's cosmetics' (男性用化粧品 - dansei-yō keshōhin) are common.
Most people remove their makeup before sleeping to allow their skin to breathe and prevent breakouts. It's also common to remove it after returning home for the day or before engaging in activities where it might smudge, like swimming.
Natural makeup is often called ナチュラルメイク (nachuraru meiku), using the English loanword. It implies a look that enhances features subtly without appearing heavily made-up.
The core meaning is cosmetic. However, the kanji 化 (transform) and 粧 (adorn) can appear in other contexts, but 化粧 itself is firmly rooted in beauty and appearance.
Like in any culture, it depends on the comment and the relationship. A sincere compliment might be appreciated, but unsolicited criticism or overly personal comments can be considered rude.
The opposite is usually expressed as すっぴん (suppin) or 素顔 (sugao), meaning a bare face without makeup.
It's quite significant, especially in contexts like social events, professional settings (like broadcasting or service industries), and the fashion/beauty world. While not mandatory for everyone, it plays a role in presentation and personal expression for many.
Teste dich selbst
私は毎朝、顔に ______ をします。
The sentence means 'I put ______ on my face every morning.' '化粧' (makeup/the act of applying makeup) fits best here.
「化粧を落とす」とはどういう意味ですか？ (What does 'keshō o otosu' mean?)
'Otosu' means to drop or remove. So, 'keshō o otosu' means to remove makeup.
「化粧」は主に体の他の部分（腕や足など）に使う言葉です。(Keshō is a word mainly used for other parts of the body like arms and legs.)
化粧 primarily refers to makeup applied to the face and sometimes the neck or décolletage, not generally other body parts.
Word
Bedeutung
These pairs match common terms related to makeup with their English meanings.
The correct sentence is '彼女はいつもきれいに化粧をする。(Kanojo wa itsumo kirei ni keshō o suru.)' meaning 'She always does her makeup beautifully.'
パーティーのために、いつもより ______ 化粧をしました。
'Hade na' means flashy or showy, which fits the context of party makeup being different from usual.
「化粧崩れ」という言葉が最もよく使われる状況はどれですか？ (In which situation is the word 'keshō kuzure' most likely used?)
'Keshō kuzure' specifically refers to makeup becoming ruined or smudged.
「すっぴん」は、化粧を施した状態を指す言葉である。(Suppin refers to a state where makeup has been applied.)
'Suppin' means a bare face, without any makeup.
舞台俳優は、遠くからでも観客に見えるように、 ______ 化粧をすることが多い。
'Koi' means thick or heavy. Stage makeup often needs to be more pronounced ('koi') to be visible from a distance.
化粧という行為は、単なる美容を超えて、自己表現の ______ ともなり得る。
'Shudan' means means or method. Makeup can be a means of self-expression.
Ergebnis: /10
Summary
化粧 is more than just makeup; it's about transformation, presentation, and personal expression.
- 化粧 (keshō) means makeup or cosmetics.
- It refers to both the products and the act of applying them.
- Common phrases include 化粧をする (to apply makeup) and 化粧を落とす (to remove makeup).
- It's a versatile word used in daily life, fashion, and performing arts.
Sound Association
Link 'Kei-show' to 'Key Show'. Imagine a key unlocking a 'show' of transformation on your face.
Action Verb
Remember that 化粧 is a noun. To say 'apply makeup', use 化粧をする (keshō o suru).
Context is Key
Understand that the amount and style of 化粧 considered appropriate can vary greatly depending on the situation in Japan.
Product vs. Act
Distinguish between 化粧 (makeup/act) and 化粧品 (cosmetic products) for clarity.
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