maquillage
C2 (Very low frequency, specialist vocabulary)Formal, literary, specialist (fashion, beauty, theater).
Definition
Meaning
The application of cosmetics, especially to the face; makeup.
Can refer metaphorically to any superficial enhancement or falsification designed to improve appearance or presentation.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a noun. Implies artistry and professional application more strongly than the common word 'makeup'. Often carries connotations of sophistication, illusion, or even deceit.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Equally rare and similarly formal in both varieties. No significant usage differences.
Connotations
Slightly more likely to be used in British English due to stronger French linguistic influence, but the difference is marginal.
Frequency
In everyday speech, both BrE and AmE overwhelmingly use 'makeup'. 'Maquillage' is a marked, intentional choice.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[maquillage] for [event/role]maquillage of [type/description]maquillage by [artist]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “The maquillage of power (metaphorical: the superficial trappings of power).”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. Used in marketing for high-end or French-origin cosmetics to sound sophisticated.
Academic
Found in cultural studies, fashion theory, or theater history texts discussing appearance and identity.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Would sound pretentious or intentionally stylized.
Technical
Standard term in professional theater, film, and high-fashion photography to denote the artistic craft of makeup design.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The actor wore special maquillage for his role as an old man.
- Her expertise in theatrical maquillage transformed the actor's appearance completely.
- Beyond the flawless maquillage, one could sense her tiredness.
- The director insisted on minimalist maquillage to maintain the film's gritty realism.
- The politician's public persona was a carefully crafted piece of maquillage, concealing his true intentions.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a MAQUILLAGE ARTIST in a French MACKintosh, applying makeup under a drizzle in a stylish Parisian studio.
Conceptual Metaphor
APPEARANCE IS A CONSTRUCTED SURFACE / TRUTH IS BARE, DECEPTION IS COVERED.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Russian directly borrowed 'макияж' (makiyazh) as a synonym for everyday makeup, making the English 'maquillage' seem more common than it is. Be aware of register difference.
- In English, using 'maquillage' for daily routine makeup will sound overly formal or affected.
Common Mistakes
- Spelling: 'makup', 'maquilage', 'makeillage'.
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'I need to maquillage'). The correct verb is 'apply makeup' or 'make up'.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'maquillage' MOST appropriately used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Essentially yes, but it specifically emphasizes the artistry, skill, and transformative aspect of applying cosmetics, often in a professional or formal context.
It's not recommended, as it will sound very formal or pretentious. Use 'makeup' for everyday situations.
'Cosmetics' refers to the products themselves (lipstick, foundation). 'Maquillage' refers to the act and result of applying those products, the 'made-up' appearance.
The most important part is the final sound '-ahzh', similar to the 's' in 'pleasure'. The British pronunciation often starts with a short 'ma-', while the American one has more emphasis on the middle syllable: 'ma-ki-YAHZH'.