メイク

めいく
noun / verb (suru)
makeup (cosmetics)
1. makeup, cosmetics application
The act of applying cosmetics to the face, or the cosmetics themselves once applied. Short for メイクアップ.
メイクを()とす。
Remove one's makeup.
今日(きょう)はメイクが上手(うま)くいった。
My makeup turned out well today.
ナチュラルメイクが()きだけど、特別(とくべつ)()はしっかりメイクする。
I like natural makeup, but I do a full face on special occasions.

USAGE:
メイク is the standard casual word for makeup in Japanese. The longer form メイクアップ also exists but is less common in conversation. メイクする means "to apply makeup" or "to do one's makeup."

CONTRAST WITH 化粧(けしょう):
化粧(けしょう) is the native Japanese word for makeup and is used in both casual and formal contexts. メイク is more modern and fashion-oriented, while 化粧(けしょう) is broader and also used for formal/traditional contexts (化粧品(けしょうひん) = cosmetics).

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • メイクをする: to apply makeup
  • メイクを()とす: to remove makeup
  • ナチュラルメイク: natural-looking makeup
  • メイク(なお)し: makeup touch-up
  • メイク道具(どうぐ): makeup tools
  • (うす)メイク: light makeup
  • ()いメイク: heavy makeup