1.
mask (physical)
A covering worn over the face, used in performances, rituals, or for disguise.
仮面をつける。
To put on a mask.
仮面をかぶった踊り手が舞台に現れた。
A masked dancer appeared on stage.
博物館には世界中の仮面が展示されている。
Masks from around the world are exhibited in the museum.
2.
mask, facade (figurative)
A false outward appearance that hides one's true feelings or intentions.
仮面を剥ぐ。
To unmask, to expose someone's true face.
彼女は笑顔の仮面をかぶっていた。
She was wearing a mask of smiles.
優しさの仮面の下に冷酷な本性が隠れていた。
A ruthless true nature was hidden beneath the mask of kindness.
仮面 refers to a mask worn to conceal one's face or identity. Composed of 仮 (temporary, false) + 面 (face). Often used figuratively to mean a false front or facade.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 仮面をかぶる: to wear a mask, to put on a front
- 仮面を外す: to take off a mask, to reveal one's true self
- 仮面を剥ぐ: to unmask, to expose someone
- 仮面舞踏会: masquerade ball
FIGURATIVE USE:
仮面をかぶる often means to put on a false persona: 優しさの仮面をかぶる (to wear a mask of kindness).
CULTURAL NOTE:
仮面ライダー (Kamen Rider) is one of Japan's most iconic tokusatsu superhero franchises, running since 1971.
SIMILAR WORDS:
- マスク: mask (medical/protective, or figurative)
- 面: face, mask (Noh theater: 能面)
- 覆面: mask covering the face (e.g., robber's mask)