マスク

ますく
noun
mask, face mask
1. face mask, surgical mask
A protective covering worn over the nose and mouth to prevent the spread of germs or protect against allergens and pollution.
I'm wearing a mask because I have a cold.
Masks are essential during pollen season.
I took off my mask on the train.

USAGE NOTES:

  • Mask-wearing in Japan was common even before COVID-19, especially during cold/flu season and pollen season.
  • Often worn as a courtesy when sick, to prevent spreading germs.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

CULTURAL NOTES:

  • Some people also wear masks to hide their face when they don't feel presentable or don't want to be recognized.