face powder
B2Informal, everyday, commercial
Definition
Meaning
A cosmetic powder applied to the face to reduce shine, create a matte finish, and even skin tone.
A general term for any powdered makeup product for the face, including setting powder, finishing powder, and compact powder; can also refer metaphorically to superficial measures used to improve appearance.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Typically a mass noun (e.g., 'some face powder'). The phrase belongs to the semantic field of cosmetics and personal grooming. It implies a final touch or finishing step in makeup application.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. UK English might use 'pressed powder' or 'loose powder' more specifically in formal cosmetic contexts, but 'face powder' is universally understood.
Connotations
Neutral cosmetic term in both. Can have slightly old-fashioned or classic connotations compared to modern terms like 'setting powder' or 'finishing powder'.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties. The frequency of the specific term may be declining in favour of more specialised product names.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] applies face powder[Subject] uses face powder to [Purpose][Subject] is dusted with face powderFace powder [Verb: reduces/shines/evens]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “powder one's nose (euphemism for using the toilet, often involving cosmetic touch-ups)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
In the cosmetics industry, referring to product categories, marketing, and retail.
Academic
Rare; might appear in historical, sociological, or cultural studies of fashion and beauty.
Everyday
Common in conversations about makeup, shopping for cosmetics, and personal grooming routines.
Technical
In cosmetics chemistry and formulation, referring to ingredients like talc, silica, and pigments.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- She decided to powder her face before the meeting.
- He lightly powdered his nose.
American English
- You might want to powder your face—it's shiny.
- She powdered her T-zone to control oil.
adverb
British English
- (Rarely used as an adverb; typically part of a compound adjective.)
American English
- (Rarely used as an adverb; typically part of a compound adjective.)
adjective
British English
- The face-powder compact was antique silver.
- She preferred a face-powder brush to a puff.
American English
- Her face-powder shade was too dark.
- It's a face-powder product with SPF.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- She uses face powder.
- I bought new face powder.
- After her foundation, she applied a light face powder.
- This face powder helps my skin look less shiny.
- A translucent face powder set her makeup without adding colour.
- He noticed the faint scent of her face powder as she passed.
- The forensic analysis detected trace elements of face powder on the collar, consistent with a popular brand from the 1940s.
- Her critique extended beyond policy to what she termed the 'face powder' solutions offered by the government—superficial and short-lasting.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
FACE POWDER: Think of a FACE wanting to be POWDERed like a doughnut—smooth and without shine.
Conceptual Metaphor
A FINISHING LAYER (face powder is the final coat, like varnish on wood). A SHIELD (against shine and imperfections).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid literal translation as 'лицевой порошок' – use 'пудра' or 'рассыпчатая пудра'. 'Пудра для лица' is acceptable but 'пудра' alone is sufficient.
Common Mistakes
- Using as a countable noun (e.g., 'a face powder' is rare; usually 'a compact of face powder'). Confusing with 'foundation' (which is liquid/cream base makeup).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of face powder?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Foundation is a liquid, cream, or mousse used as a base to even skin tone. Face powder is applied on top, usually to set foundation, reduce shine, and create a matte finish.
Yes. Face powder is used by anyone wishing to reduce skin shine or set makeup. Many brands market oil-control or translucent powders as gender-neutral grooming products.
Loose powder is fine and comes in a jar, often giving a lighter, more natural finish. Pressed powder is compacted into a case, is more portable, and typically offers more coverage.
In casual conversation, it remains common. However, in cosmetics marketing, more specific terms like 'setting powder', 'finishing powder', 'HD powder', or 'blotting powder' are now prevalent.