Cette page dans ta langue
English فارسی العربية Deutsch Español 日本語 한국어 Português 中文 हिन्दी
A2 verb #7,000 le plus courant 11 min de lecture

maquilhar

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces maquilhar en 30 secondes
Explication maquilhar in your Level:
At the A1 level, you should focus on the most basic use of 'maquilhar', which is almost always reflexive: 'maquilhar-se'. At this stage, you are learning to describe your daily routine. You will use it in the present tense to say things like 'I put on makeup in the morning' (Eu maquilho-me de manhã). You don't need to worry about complex professional contexts yet. Just remember that it is a regular '-ar' verb, so it follows the same pattern as 'falar' (to speak) or 'estudar' (to study). The most important thing for an A1 learner is to remember the 'me' (myself). In Portugal, we say 'maquilho-me', and in Brazil, they usually say 'me maquilho'. You will also learn the noun 'maquilhagem' (makeup), which is a feminine word. So you might say 'Eu gosto de maquilhagem'. Keep it simple and focus on your personal habits. Practice saying the word slowly to get the 'lh' sound right, which is like the 'll' in the English word 'million'. Think of it as part of your 'getting ready' vocabulary, along with 'lavar a cara' (wash the face) and 'vestir' (to dress).
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
At the A2 level, you can start using 'maquilhar' in more varied contexts, such as talking about past routines or future plans. You should be comfortable using the Pretérito Perfeito to describe what you did: 'Ontem, maquilhei-me para a festa' (Yesterday, I put on makeup for the party). You can also use the verb to describe what other people are doing, perhaps using the present continuous: 'Ela está a maquilhar-se' (She is putting on makeup). This level is about expanding your ability to describe daily life in more detail. You might also start to use the verb in its non-reflexive form when talking about helping someone else, like a child: 'Vou maquilhar a minha filha para o Carnaval'. You should also be aware of the difference between 'maquilhar' (Portugal) and 'maquiar' (Brazil). At A2, you are expected to handle basic social interactions, so knowing how to ask a friend 'Queres que te maquilhe?' (Do you want me to put makeup on you?) is a great practical skill to have.
At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'maquilhar' in more complex sentence structures, including those with multiple pronouns or in the subjunctive mood. For example, you might express a desire or a suggestion: 'Espero que te maquilhes bem para a entrevista' (I hope you put on makeup well for the interview). You can also start using the word in professional or more specific contexts, such as discussing beauty tips or describing a process. B1 learners should be comfortable with the placement of reflexive pronouns in different sentence types, such as negative sentences ('Não me quero maquilhar hoje') or sentences with auxiliary verbs ('Ela pode-se maquilhar aqui'). You might also start to recognize the metaphorical use of the word, where it means to disguise or cover something up, although this is still relatively rare. Your vocabulary should also include related words like 'desmaquilhar' (to remove makeup) and 'maquilhador' (makeup artist).
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'maquilhar' with a high degree of precision and fluency. You should be able to discuss the nuances of the word in different registers, from casual talk with friends to professional discussions about aesthetics or theater. You can use the verb in hypothetical situations using the conditional tense: 'Se eu fosse a uma gala, maquilhar-me-ia de forma mais elaborada' (If I went to a gala, I would put on makeup in a more elaborate way). At this level, you should also be very familiar with the 'clítico' rules (pronoun placement) in European Portuguese, including more complex cases like those involving 'que' or 'se'. You can participate in debates about beauty standards or the cosmetic industry using this verb. Your understanding of the word should extend to its use in the media, fashion magazines, and professional tutorials, where technical terms and specific instructions are common.
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of 'maquilhar' and can use it in sophisticated, nuanced ways. You are comfortable with its metaphorical applications, such as 'maquilhar a realidade' (to sugarcoat reality) or 'maquilhar as contas' (to doctor the accounts). You can use the verb in complex literary or academic contexts, discussing the sociological implications of makeup and self-presentation. Your control over the grammar, including all tenses and the most subtle rules of pronoun placement, is near-native. You can easily switch between the European 'maquilhar' and the Brazilian 'maquiar' depending on your audience. You also understand the historical etymology of the word and how it has evolved in the Portuguese-speaking world. You can write detailed critiques or articles involving the concept of 'maquilhagem' as an art form or a cultural phenomenon.
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
At the C2 level, your mastery of 'maquilhar' is complete. You can use it in any context, from the most technical professional setting to the most abstract philosophical discussion. You are aware of archaic or very rare uses of the word and can appreciate its use in high literature. You can manipulate the language creatively, perhaps using the verb in wordplay or complex metaphors. Your pronunciation is indistinguishable from a native speaker, including the subtle 'lh' and the correct stress. You can explain the historical development of the word from its French roots and its integration into the various dialects of Portuguese. You can use the verb to express the finest shades of meaning, choosing it over synonyms like 'pintar' or 'caracterizar' with perfect precision to achieve a specific stylistic effect.
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

maquilhar en 30 secondes

  • Maquilhar is the standard Portuguese verb for applying makeup, derived from the French 'maquiller'.
  • It is most commonly used in its reflexive form, 'maquilhar-se', when talking about one's own routine.
  • In Brazil, the preferred form is 'maquiar', while 'maquilhar' is the standard in Portugal and Africa.
  • It is a regular -ar verb, making its conjugation predictable for learners of all levels.

The Portuguese verb maquilhar (or maquiar in Brazil) primarily refers to the act of applying cosmetics to the face or body to enhance appearance, conceal imperfections, or prepare for a performance. It is a loanword from the French 'maquiller', reflecting the historical influence of French culture on European Portuguese fashion and beauty standards. In everyday life, it is most frequently used in its reflexive form, maquilhar-se, because the action is usually performed on oneself as part of a morning routine or preparation for a social event.

Daily Routine
Used when describing the sequence of getting ready: taking a shower, dressing, and then putting on makeup.
Professional Context
Used by makeup artists (maquilhadores) when working on clients for weddings, film sets, or photography sessions.
Theatrical/Artistic
Refers to the elaborate process of transforming an actor into a character through heavy greasepaint or prosthetics.

Ela demora sempre trinta minutos a maquilhar-se antes de sair para o trabalho.

Understanding the nuance between the transitive and reflexive use is crucial. If you say 'Eu maquilho,' people will ask 'Quem?' (Who?). If you are talking about your own face, you must say 'Eu maquilho-me.' This distinction is a hallmark of Portuguese grammar that English speakers often overlook. Furthermore, the word carries a certain level of intentionality; it is not just about 'painting' the face, but about the art of presentation.

O profissional de estética vai maquilhar a noiva para a cerimónia.

Beyond the literal sense, 'maquilhar' can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe 'dressing up' or 'masking' the truth or a situation, though this is less common than the literal beauty context. For example, one might 'maquilhar os números' (doctor the numbers/finances), suggesting a superficial improvement to hide a deeper flaw.

Não adianta maquilhar a realidade; os problemas continuam lá.

Formal Usage
In formal writing, the word remains the standard term for aesthetic application, often found in fashion magazines or beauty product descriptions.

Aprenda a maquilhar os olhos de forma natural com estas dicas.

Culturally, the act of 'maquilhar' is deeply tied to social expectations and personal expression. In Portuguese cities like Lisbon or Porto, you will see a wide range of styles, from the very natural 'no-makeup' look to bold, artistic expressions during festivals like Carnaval. The verb covers all these spectrums, from the lightest touch of mascara to full-face character transformations.

Vou-me maquilhar rapidamente porque o táxi já chegou.

Mastering maquilhar requires understanding its grammatical behavior as a regular '-ar' verb and its frequent reflexive nature. Because it is an action often performed on oneself, the reflexive pronouns (me, te, se, nos, vos, se) are essential companions in daily speech. Without them, the sentence implies you are applying makeup to someone else, which is a specific professional or helpful context rather than a personal routine.

Reflexive Construction
Subject + Pronoun + Verb. Example: 'Eu maquilho-me' (I put makeup on myself). Note that in European Portuguese, the pronoun often follows the verb with a hyphen in affirmative statements.
Negative Sentences
In negative sentences, the pronoun moves before the verb. Example: 'Eu não me maquilho todos os dias' (I don't put makeup on every day).

Tu maquilhas-te muito bem; parece um trabalho profissional.

When using the verb in a non-reflexive way, it functions as a standard transitive verb. This is common when talking about helping a friend, a child, or working as a makeup artist. In these cases, the direct object (the person receiving the makeup) follows the verb. If the object is a pronoun, the rules of pronoun placement (clíticos) apply based on whether the sentence is affirmative, negative, or starts with certain triggers.

A mãe está a maquilhar a filha para a festa da escola.

In the past tense (Pretérito Perfeito), it describes a completed action: 'Ontem, ela maquilhou-se para o jantar.' In the imperfect (Pretérito Imperfeito), it describes a habit or an ongoing action in the past: 'Antigamente, eu não me maquilhava para ir às aulas.' These distinctions help provide context about frequency and lifestyle habits in Portuguese conversation.

Nós maquilhámo-nos no camarim antes da peça começar.

Future Intentions
Using 'ir' + infinitive is the most common way to express future plans. 'Vou-me maquilhar agora' (I'm going to put my makeup on now).

Se tiveres tempo, podes maquilhar-me para o baile?

Finally, consider the imperative mood for giving instructions or advice, common in tutorials. 'Maquilha os lábios com um tom suave para um look de dia.' Here, the verb is used to guide the listener through a process. The flexibility of 'maquilhar' across these tenses and moods makes it a versatile part of any Portuguese speaker's vocabulary regarding personal care and aesthetics.

Nunca te maquilhes com luz fraca, senão o resultado será mau.

The word maquilhar is ubiquitous in settings related to beauty, media, and social preparation. You will hear it most frequently in domestic environments, beauty salons, and professional studios. It is a 'lifestyle' verb that appears in both casual conversations between friends and formal professional instructions. Understanding the context helps you grasp the intended level of detail or the importance of the action.

At the Beauty Salon (Cabeleireiro/Estética)
Clients ask for professional services: 'Queria marcar um horário para me maquilhar para um casamento.'
Social Media & YouTube
Portuguese 'influencers' use the word constantly in tutorials. 'Hoje vou ensinar-vos como se maquilhar para uma festa à noite.'

Estou no salão a maquilhar-me para a gala de hoje à noite.

In the entertainment industry, 'maquilhar' is a technical term. Behind the scenes of Portuguese television (like RTP, SIC, or TVI) or in theaters like the Teatro Nacional D. Maria II, actors spend significant time in the 'sala de maquilhagem'. You might hear a director say, 'Precisamos de maquilhar os figurantes rapidamente!' (We need to put makeup on the extras quickly!).

Os atores estão a maquilhar-se para a cena do baile de máscaras.

You will also encounter this word in retail environments. In stores like Sephora or the beauty section of El Corte Inglés, staff might offer to 'maquilhar' you to test a product. 'Gostaria que a nossa especialista a ajudasse a maquilhar-se com esta nova base?' is a common sales pitch. This highlights the word's role in the commercial side of the beauty industry.

Ela trabalha numa loja de cosméticos e passa o dia a maquilhar clientes.

Family and Friends
Commonly heard when friends are getting ready together before going out to a 'discoteca' or a dinner party.

Despacha-te! Ainda tens de te maquilhar e já estamos atrasados.

Finally, in the context of Carnaval—a huge event in places like Torres Vedras or Loulé—the word takes on a festive and transformative meaning. People 'maquilham-se' as clowns, monsters, or celebrities, using makeup as a central part of their costume. In this context, the word is associated with fun, creativity, and public celebration.

Durante o Carnaval, todos se gostam de maquilhar de forma extravagante.

English speakers often face specific hurdles when using maquilhar, mostly stemming from the differences in how reflexive verbs work in Portuguese compared to English. In English, 'to put on makeup' doesn't require a reflexive pronoun. In Portuguese, omitting it changes the meaning or makes the sentence sound incomplete.

Omission of the Reflexive Pronoun
Saying 'Eu maquilho todas as manhãs' is incorrect if you mean you do it to yourself. It must be 'Eu me maquilho' (BR) or 'Eu maquilho-me' (PT).
Confusing 'Maquilhar' with 'Pintar'
While 'pintar' (to paint) is sometimes used colloquially ('pintar a cara'), 'maquilhar' is the specific and more sophisticated term for cosmetics. Using 'pintar' can sound childish or overly literal, like house painting.

Errado: Eu vou pintar-me para a festa. (Unless you mean body paint).
Correto: Eu vou maquilhar-me para a festa.

Another common error is the spelling and pronunciation of the 'qu' sound. In Portuguese, 'qu' before 'i' or 'e' is usually a 'k' sound (ma-ki-lyar). Some learners mistakenly try to pronounce the 'u' as a 'w' sound, which is incorrect in this word. Additionally, the 'lh' sound is a palatal lateral approximant, similar to the 'lli' in 'million', and should not be pronounced as a simple 'l'.

Pronúncia errada: ma-kwil-har.
Pronúncia correta: ma-ki-lyar.

Learners also struggle with the difference between the verb 'maquilhar' and the noun 'maquilhagem'. You 'maquilhas-te' with 'maquilhagem'. Avoid using the noun where a verb is needed. For example, don't say 'Eu vou fazer maquilhagem' when 'Eu vou-me maquilhar' is much more natural and direct.

Evite: Vou fazer a minha maquilhagem agora.
Prefira: Vou-me maquilhar agora.

Regional Confusion
Mixing 'maquilhar' (PT) and 'maquiar' (BR) in the same conversation can sound inconsistent. While both are understood, it's best to stick to the variant used in the region you are in.

Finally, remember that 'maquilhar' is for the face. If you are talking about putting on nail polish, the verb is 'pintar' (pintar as unhas). Using 'maquilhar as unhas' is a semantic error that will sound very strange to native speakers.

Errado: Vou maquilhar as unhas de vermelho.
Correto: Vou pintar as unhas de vermelho.

While maquilhar is the most direct term for applying cosmetics, several other verbs and expressions can be used depending on the context, the intensity of the action, or the level of formality. Understanding these alternatives will help you sound more like a native speaker and allow you to describe beauty routines with more precision.

Arranjar-se
A general term meaning 'to get ready' or 'to fix oneself up'. It includes dressing, doing hair, and makeup. If you don't want to be specific about the makeup, this is the perfect verb.
Pintar-se
More colloquial and slightly less formal. It literally means 'to paint oneself'. Often used by younger people or in very casual settings.
Embelezar-se
A more literary or formal term meaning 'to beautify oneself'. It implies a more significant enhancement than just daily makeup.

Ela está a arranjar-se para o encontro; deve estar quase pronta.

In a professional or artistic context, you might encounter 'caracterizar-se'. This is specifically used in theater and film when the makeup is part of creating a character, often involving prosthetics or historical styles. It is more than just 'makeup'; it is 'characterization'.

O ator demora duas horas a caracterizar-se como o monstro.

When discussing the removal of makeup, the verb changes to desmaquilhar-se. This is an essential counterpart to 'maquilhar-se'. Just like its positive counterpart, it is almost always used reflexively in daily life. Using 'tirar a maquilhagem' (to take off makeup) is also very common and slightly more informal.

É muito importante desmaquilhar-se antes de ir dormir.

Retocar
To touch up. Used when the makeup is already applied but needs a quick fix, like adding more lipstick or powder.

Vou só à casa de banho retocar a maquilhagem.

Lastly, in Brazil, you will almost exclusively hear maquiar. While 'maquilhar' is understood, it sounds distinctly European. If you are traveling to Brazil, adjusting to 'maquiar' will make you sound much more natural in the local context. The conjugation remains regular, following the same patterns as 'maquilhar'.

No Brasil, dizemos maquiar-se em vez de maquilhar-se.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The word entered Portuguese in the late 19th or early 20th century as French fashion and culture were highly prestigious in Lisbon and Rio de Janeiro.

Guide de prononciation

UK /mɐ.ki.ˈʎaɾ/
US /mɑ.ki.ˈʎɑɹ/
The stress is on the last syllable: ma-qui-LHAR.
Rime avec
trabalhar olhar brilhar partilhar espalhar falhar mergulhar aconselhar
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing the 'u' in 'qui' (it should be silent).
  • Pronouncing 'lh' as a simple 'l'.
  • Stress on the second syllable instead of the last.
  • In Brazil, omitting the 'l' sound (maquiar).
  • Making the 'r' too guttural like in French.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to recognize in text, especially with context of beauty.

Écriture 3/5

Requires remembering the 'lh' spelling and reflexive pronoun placement.

Expression orale 4/5

The 'lh' sound and the silent 'u' can be tricky for beginners.

Écoute 3/5

Clear pronunciation usually, but can be fast in casual speech.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

rosto cor espelho falar vestir

Apprends ensuite

desmaquilhar pentear barbear perfumar estética

Avancé

visagismo caracterização cosmética pigmentação dermatologia

Grammaire à connaître

Reflexive Pronoun Placement (European Portuguese)

Eu maquilho-me (Affirmative), Eu não me maquilho (Negative).

Regular -ar Verb Conjugation

Eu maquilho, tu maquilhas, ele maquilha...

Object Pronouns with Infinitives

Vou maquilhar-te (I will put makeup on you).

Silent 'u' in 'qui' and 'que'

Maquilhar is pronounced /makiʎaɾ/.

The 'lh' Palatal Sound

Similar to the 'lli' in 'million'.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

Exemples par niveau

1

Eu maquilho-me de manhã.

I put on makeup in the morning.

Present tense, reflexive.

2

Ela não se maquilha para ir à escola.

She doesn't put on makeup to go to school.

Negative sentence, pronoun moves before verb.

3

Tu maquilhas-te hoje?

Are you putting on makeup today?

Question, reflexive.

4

Nós maquilhámo-nos juntas.

We put on makeup together.

Past tense (Pretérito Perfeito).

5

Ele nunca se maquilha.

He never puts on makeup.

Negative adverb 'nunca' pulls the pronoun.

6

Vou-me maquilhar agora.

I'm going to put on makeup now.

Future with 'ir' + reflexive.

7

Eles maquilham-se para a festa.

They put on makeup for the party.

Third person plural.

8

Onde é que te maquilhas?

Where do you put on your makeup?

Interrogative sentence.

1

Ontem, ela maquilhou-se muito depressa.

Yesterday, she put on her makeup very quickly.

Pretérito Perfeito, reflexive.

2

A minha mãe está a maquilhar a minha irmã.

My mother is putting makeup on my sister.

Present continuous, transitive (not reflexive).

3

Antigamente, eu maquilhava-me todos os dias.

In the past, I used to put on makeup every day.

Pretérito Imperfeito (habitual past).

4

Queres que eu te maquilhe?

Do you want me to put makeup on you?

Present Subjunctive.

5

Ela gosta de se maquilhar com cores vivas.

She likes to put on makeup with bright colors.

Infinitive with reflexive pronoun.

6

Nós vamos maquilhar os miúdos para o Carnaval.

We are going to put makeup on the kids for Carnival.

Transitive use for a specific event.

7

Não te maquilhes no carro, é perigoso.

Don't put on makeup in the car; it's dangerous.

Negative Imperative.

8

Ela já se maquilhou para o jantar.

She has already put on her makeup for dinner.

Pretérito Perfeito with 'já'.

1

Se eu tivesse tempo, maquilhar-me-ia melhor.

If I had time, I would put on makeup better.

Conditional tense.

2

É importante que te desmaquilhes antes de dormir.

It is important that you remove your makeup before sleeping.

Subjunctive mood, antonym 'desmaquilhar'.

3

A maquilhadora vai maquilhar a noiva às dez horas.

The makeup artist is going to do the bride's makeup at ten o'clock.

Professional context, transitive.

4

Ela prefere não se maquilhar quando vai à praia.

She prefers not to put on makeup when she goes to the beach.

Reflexive with infinitive after 'preferir'.

5

Embora estivesse cansada, ela maquilhou-se na mesma.

Even though she was tired, she put on makeup anyway.

Concessive clause.

6

Tu maquilhas-te de forma muito discreta.

You put on makeup in a very discreet way.

Adverbial phrase 'de forma muito discreta'.

7

Ninguém se maquilhou para o acampamento.

Nobody put on makeup for the camping trip.

Negative subject 'ninguém' attracts the pronoun.

8

Ela aprendeu a maquilhar-se a ver vídeos no YouTube.

She learned how to put on makeup by watching YouTube videos.

Infinitive reflexive.

1

O ator demorou horas a maquilhar-se para a personagem.

The actor took hours to put on makeup for the character.

Reflexive, professional/theatrical context.

2

Não convém maquilhar-se excessivamente para uma entrevista.

It is not advisable to put on excessive makeup for an interview.

Impersonal expression 'não convém'.

3

Ela maquilha-se com tamanha mestria que parece outra pessoa.

She puts on makeup with such mastery that she looks like someone else.

Consecutive clause with 'tamanha... que'.

4

Duvido que ela se maquilhe sozinha para o casamento.

I doubt she will do her own makeup for the wedding.

Subjunctive after 'duvidar'.

5

O realizador pediu para maquilharem os figurantes de novo.

The director asked to put makeup on the extras again.

Personal infinitive (plural).

6

Ela sempre se maquilhou seguindo as tendências de Paris.

She has always put on her makeup following Paris trends.

Adverb 'sempre' attracts the pronoun.

7

Ao maquilhar-se, ela sentia-se mais confiante.

Upon putting on makeup, she felt more confident.

Temporal clause with 'Ao' + infinitive.

8

Eles tentaram maquilhar a situação, mas a verdade veio ao de cima.

They tried to sugarcoat the situation, but the truth came out.

Metaphorical use.

1

A arte de se maquilhar exige paciência e bons pincéis.

The art of putting on makeup requires patience and good brushes.

Nominalized infinitive structure.

2

Por mais que se maquilhe, ela não consegue esconder a tristeza.

No matter how much makeup she puts on, she can't hide the sadness.

Concessive structure with 'Por mais que'.

3

O governo foi acusado de maquilhar as estatísticas do desemprego.

The government was accused of doctoring the unemployment statistics.

Metaphorical/Political context.

4

Maquilhar-se tornou-se um ritual quase sagrado para ela.

Putting on makeup became an almost sacred ritual for her.

Reflexive infinitive as a subject.

5

Ela recusa-se a maquilhar-se, desafiando os padrões de beleza.

She refuses to put on makeup, defying beauty standards.

Reflexive infinitive after 'recusar-se a'.

6

A técnica de maquilhar peles maduras requer produtos específicos.

The technique of applying makeup to mature skin requires specific products.

Transitive use in a technical context.

7

Caso te maquilhes para o teatro, usa produtos de longa duração.

In case you put on makeup for the theater, use long-lasting products.

Conditional 'Caso' + subjunctive.

8

Ela maquilhava-se enquanto ouvia ópera, num momento de introspeção.

She would put on her makeup while listening to opera, in a moment of introspection.

Imperfect tense for background action.

1

A efemeridade do rosto que se maquilha contrasta com a perenidade da estátua.

The ephemerality of the face that puts on makeup contrasts with the perennity of the statue.

Philosophical/Literary context.

2

Não há cosmético que maquilhe uma alma amargurada.

There is no cosmetic that can mask a bitter soul.

Metaphorical use in a literary register.

3

A destreza com que ele maquilha os atores é digna de um Óscar.

The dexterity with which he applies makeup to the actors is worthy of an Oscar.

Relative clause with 'com que'.

4

Oxalá te maquilhes com a mesma alegria com que vives a vida.

May you put on your makeup with the same joy with which you live life.

Optative 'Oxalá' + subjunctive.

5

A personagem, ao maquilhar-se, despe-se da sua própria identidade.

The character, upon putting on makeup, strips themselves of their own identity.

Paradoxical literary structure.

6

Maquilhar os factos é uma estratégia comum em tempos de crise.

Doctoring the facts is a common strategy in times of crisis.

Metaphorical use as a noun phrase.

7

A minúcia de maquilhar cada pormenor do rosto revela o seu perfeccionismo.

The meticulousness of applying makeup to every detail of the face reveals her perfectionism.

Gerund-like infinitive use.

8

Ainda que se maquilhasse com o maior esmero, o cansaço era visível.

Even if she put on makeup with the greatest care, the exhaustion was visible.

Concessive 'Ainda que' + imperfect subjunctive.

Collocations courantes

maquilhar os olhos
maquilhar-se levemente
maquilhar-se para uma festa
maquilhar profissionalmente
maquilhar a realidade
aprender a maquilhar-se
maquilhar o rosto
maquilhar os lábios
maquilhar com esmero
tempo para se maquilhar

Phrases Courantes

Vou-me maquilhar.

— I am going to put on my makeup. Very common daily expression.

Espera um pouco, vou-me maquilhar.

Estás a maquilhar-te?

— Are you putting on makeup? Used to check if someone is ready.

Ainda estás a maquilhar-te? Vamos chegar atrasados!

Maquilha-te bem!

— Put your makeup on well! Often used as encouragement or advice.

Hoje é um dia importante, maquilha-te bem.

Não me maquilhei hoje.

— I didn't put on makeup today. Common for casual days.

Estou de folga, por isso não me maquilhei hoje.

Podes maquilhar-me?

— Can you put makeup on me? Asking for help.

Não consigo fazer o 'eyeliner', podes maquilhar-me?

Ela maquilha-se muito.

— She wears a lot of makeup. Descriptive phrase.

Ela maquilha-se muito, quase não a reconheço.

Fui maquilhada por um profissional.

— I had my makeup done by a professional. Passive construction.

No dia do meu casamento, fui maquilhada por um profissional.

Gosto de me maquilhar.

— I like putting on makeup. Expressing a preference.

Gosto de me maquilhar enquanto ouço música.

Ela não sabe maquilhar-se.

— She doesn't know how to put on makeup. Descriptive of skill.

Ela é muito jovem e ainda não sabe maquilhar-se.

Demoro muito a maquilhar-me.

— I take a long time to put on makeup. Talking about habits.

Desculpa o atraso, demoro muito a maquilhar-me.

Souvent confondu avec

maquilhar vs pintar

Pintar is for painting walls or art; 'pintar-se' is casual for makeup.

maquilhar vs mascarar

Mascarar means to wear a mask or costume, not just makeup.

maquilhar vs limpar

Limpar is to clean; use 'desmaquilhar' for removing makeup specifically.

Expressions idiomatiques

"maquilhar a verdade"

— To distort or hide the truth to make it look better.

O político tentou maquilhar a verdade durante o debate.

Metaphorical
"maquilhar os números"

— To manipulate financial data or statistics.

A empresa foi multada por maquilhar os números do balanço.

Metaphorical/Business
"maquilhar o problema"

— To give a superficial solution without fixing the root cause.

Pintar a parede não resolve a infiltração; é apenas maquilhar o problema.

Metaphorical
"estar com a cara pintada"

— To be wearing a lot of makeup (sometimes derogatory).

Ela apareceu com a cara toda pintada.

Informal
"maquilhar as contas"

— Similar to doctoring the numbers; specifically regarding accounting.

Eles maquilharam as contas para atrair investidores.

Formal/Business
"dar um retoque"

— To make small adjustments to makeup or a situation.

Vou só dar um retoque na maquilhagem.

Informal
"cara de Carnaval"

— Describing someone with too much or messy makeup.

Ela exagerou na sombra, parece que está com cara de Carnaval.

Informal
"maquilhar a realidade"

— To present a situation as better than it actually is.

Não adianta maquilhar a realidade, estamos em crise.

Metaphorical
"estar de máscara"

— Metaphor for wearing so much makeup one's face is hidden.

Ela maquilha-se tanto que parece que está de máscara.

Informal
"fazer a cara"

— Colloquial Brazilian expression for doing makeup.

Vou ali fazer a minha cara.

Slang (BR)

Facile à confondre

maquilhar vs Maquiar

It's the same word but the Brazilian variation.

Maquilhar (Portugal) vs Maquiar (Brazil). Both are correct but regional.

No Rio, ela diz: 'Vou me maquiar'.

maquilhar vs Pintar

Both involve applying color.

Maquilhar is specific to cosmetics. Pintar is for art, houses, or nails.

Vou maquilhar o rosto e pintar as unhas.

maquilhar vs Arranjar

Both relate to getting ready.

Arranjar is general (clothes, hair, etc.). Maquilhar is just the face products.

Ela demora muito a arranjar-se porque se maquilha muito.

maquilhar vs Caracterizar

Both involve facial change.

Caracterizar is for acting/theater transformation. Maquilhar is for beauty.

O palhaço precisa de se caracterizar.

maquilhar vs Disfarçar

Makeup can be used to hide things.

Disfarçar means to hide/disguise. Maquilhar is the act of using the products.

Ela usa base para disfarçar as sardas.

Structures de phrases

A1

Eu [reflexive] maquilho.

Eu me maquilho.

A1

[Subject] [reflexive] maquilha-se.

A Maria maquilha-se.

A2

Eu vou-me [verb].

Eu vou-me maquilhar.

A2

[Subject] está a [verb]-se.

Ela está a maquilhar-se.

B1

É preciso que tu te [subjunctive].

É preciso que tu te maquilhes.

B2

Se eu tivesse [noun], [conditional].

Se eu tivesse tempo, maquilhar-me-ia.

C1

Por mais que se [subjunctive]...

Por mais que se maquilhe, ela está triste.

C2

A forma como [subject] [verb]...

A forma como ele maquilha os factos é perigosa.

Famille de mots

Noms

maquilhagem (makeup)
maquilhador (makeup artist)
desmaquilhante (makeup remover)

Verbes

maquilhar (to apply makeup)
desmaquilhar (to remove makeup)
retocar (to touch up)

Adjectifs

maquilhado (wearing makeup)
desmaquilhado (without makeup)
maquilhável (that can be made up)

Apparenté

cosmético
estética
beleza
batom
rímel
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour voir tous les exemples

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

High in daily life and beauty contexts.

Erreurs courantes
  • Eu maquilho todas as manhãs. → Eu maquilho-me todas as manhãs.

    Missing the reflexive pronoun makes it sound like you're putting makeup on an invisible person.

  • Vou maquilhar as minhas unhas. → Vou pintar as minhas unhas.

    'Maquilhar' is only for the face/skin, not nails.

  • Pronouncing the 'u' in 'maquilhar'. → Pronouncing it as 'ma-ki-lyar'.

    The 'u' is silent in the 'qui' combination in this word.

  • Using 'maquilhagem' as a verb. → Using 'maquilhar'.

    Don't say 'Eu vou maquilhagem'; use the verb form.

  • Não maquilho-me. → Não me maquilho.

    In negative sentences, the pronoun must come before the verb.

Astuces

Reflexive Pronouns

Always pair the verb with the correct pronoun for the subject (me, te, se, nos, vos, se).

The 'lh' Sound

Practice the 'lh' by putting your tongue against the roof of your mouth. It's not a simple 'L'.

Opposites

Learn 'desmaquilhar' at the same time to describe the whole routine.

Regionalism

If you are in Lisbon, use 'maquilhar'. If you are in São Paulo, use 'maquiar'.

Transitive vs Reflexive

Remember: 'Eu maquilho-me' (Self) vs 'Eu maquilho a minha amiga' (Someone else).

Silent U

Don't write 'makilhar'. The 'qu' is essential in Portuguese for the 'k' sound before 'i'.

Metaphors

Use 'maquilhar a verdade' in advanced writing to describe deception.

Getting Ready

Group 'maquilhar' with 'vestir' and 'pentear' to memorize your morning routine.

Theater

In theater, 'maquilhar' is part of 'caracterização'.

Jobs

A makeup artist is a 'maquilhador' (male) or 'maquilhadora' (female).

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'MA-QUI-LHAR' as a 'MAGIC-LIAR'—it uses 'magic' products to 'lie' about imperfections (metaphorically speaking!).

Association visuelle

Imagine a woman looking into a mirror, holding a brush like a magic wand, transforming her face.

Word Web

Rosto Batom Espelho Beleza Cores Pincel Sombra Base

Défi

Describe your morning beauty or grooming routine in five sentences using 'maquilhar-se' at least once.

Origine du mot

Borrowed from the French verb 'maquiller', which originally meant to cheat or disguise in theater slang before becoming the standard word for applying cosmetics.

Sens originel : To disguise or to alter the appearance.

Romance (Gallic influence on Ibero-Romance).

Contexte culturel

Be mindful that makeup is a personal choice; some may find the term 'maquilhar a verdade' offensive if applied to personal appearance.

English speakers often say 'do my makeup'. In Portuguese, using the specific verb 'maquilhar-se' is more common than 'fazer a maquilhagem'.

Portuguese beauty influencers like Helena Coelho. Backstage at the 'ModaLisboa' fashion week. The iconic dramatic makeup of Fado singers like Amália Rodrigues (historical).

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Morning Routine

  • Lavar a cara
  • Maquilhar-se
  • Pôr creme
  • Pentear o cabelo

Wedding Preparation

  • Marcar maquilhagem
  • Noiva
  • Maquilhador profissional
  • Prova de maquilhagem

Theater/Film

  • Camarim
  • Luzes
  • Caracterizar a personagem
  • Maquilhagem de cena

Shopping

  • Testar o produto
  • Base de maquilhagem
  • Sombra de olhos
  • Batom de longa duração

Carnaval

  • Máscara
  • Pinturas faciais
  • Glitter
  • Disfarce

Amorces de conversation

"Quanto tempo demoras a maquilhar-te de manhã?"

"Gostas de te maquilhar para festas ou preferes um look natural?"

"Onde aprendeste a maquilhar-te tão bem?"

"Que produtos usas para te maquilhares no dia a dia?"

"Achas que é difícil maquilhar os olhos?"

Sujets d'écriture

Descreve o teu ritual de beleza matinal. Costumas maquilhar-te?

Escreve sobre uma vez em que tiveste de te maquilhar para um evento especial.

Qual é a tua opinião sobre o uso de maquilhagem no local de trabalho?

Se fosses um maquilhador profissional, que tipo de maquilhagem gostarias de fazer?

Como te sentes quando estás maquilhada em comparação a quando tens a cara lavada?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

No, 'maquilhar' is a neutral verb. It is used for anyone applying makeup, including men in professional settings like TV or theater, or for personal grooming.

They are the same verb. 'Maquilhar' is the standard spelling in Portugal and other PALOP countries. 'Maquiar' is the standard in Brazil.

The most natural way is 'Estou a maquilhar-me'.

Only if you are doing it to yourself. If you are doing it to someone else, you don't use the reflexive pronoun. Example: 'Vou maquilhar a noiva'.

Not rude, but it is very informal. In a professional or formal setting, 'maquilhar-se' is much better.

You use the verb 'desmaquilhar-se' or the phrase 'tirar a maquilhagem'.

It is feminine: 'a maquilhagem'. Words ending in '-agem' in Portuguese are almost always feminine.

No, for nails we use 'pintar': 'pintar as unhas'.

Yes, it is extremely common in daily life, fashion, and media.

Yes, it follows the regular -ar conjugation pattern perfectly.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour les astuces et notes

Teste-toi 191 questions

writing

Write a sentence using 'maquilhar-se' in the present tense.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Describe what you did yesterday using 'maquilhou-se'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Ask a friend if they want you to put makeup on them.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Explain why it is important to remove makeup.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use 'maquilhar' in a metaphorical sense.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a short dialogue between two people getting ready.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Describe a professional makeup artist's job.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a negative sentence using 'maquilhar-se'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use the conditional tense with 'maquilhar'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Give an instruction using the imperative.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Describe a Carnaval look.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write about your favorite makeup product.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use 'maquilhar' in the future tense.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Explain the difference between 'maquilhar' and 'pintar'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence with 'maquilhador'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Describe someone who wears too much makeup.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use 'desmaquilhar' in a sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence using the word 'maquilhagem'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Describe a morning routine with 3 verbs.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use 'maquilhar' in the Pretérito Imperfeito.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce correctly: Maquilhar.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'I put on makeup every day.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'She is putting on makeup now.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask: 'Do you like to put on makeup?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'I didn't put on makeup yesterday.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Wait a minute, I'm going to put on my makeup.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce: Maquilhagem.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'I need to remove my makeup.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'He is a great makeup artist.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Don't put on too much makeup.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask: 'Where is my makeup bag?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'I'm going to touch up my lipstick.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'She is helping her friend put on makeup.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce: Desmaquilhar.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'I prefer a natural look.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'I learned to put on makeup on YouTube.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'The bride is beautiful.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'I put on makeup in the bathroom.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'You look different with makeup.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'It's time to get ready.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the verb: 'Eu maquilho-me'.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the tense: 'Ela maquilhou-se'.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

True or False: The speaker said 'maquiar' (Brazilian).

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the subject: 'Maquilhamos-nos juntas'.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen for the word 'batom'. Did you hear it?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the mood: 'Maquilha-te!'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen to the sentence and write it down: 'Vou-me maquilhar'.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Is the sentence negative or affirmative? 'Não me maquilhei'.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

How many people are mentioned? 'A Maria e a Joana estão a maquilhar-se'.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen for the word 'desmaquilhar'. What does it mean?

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the professional mentioned: 'O maquilhador está atrasado'.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Is the person happy with the makeup? 'Ficou horrível!'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What time is the appointment? 'Marquei às nove'.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

What part of the face is mentioned? 'Vou pintar os olhos'.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the context: 'Luzes, câmara, ação! Maquilhem os atores!'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

/ 191 correct

Perfect score!

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour t'entraîner

Contenu associé

C'tait utile ?

Commentaires (0)

Connectez-vous pour Commenter
Pas encore de commentaires. Soyez le premier à partager vos idées !