(つめみが)

つめみがき
noun
nail buffing; nail file
appearancedaily-life
1. nail buffing; nail polishing
The act of smoothing and polishing fingernails or toenails using a buffer or file to give them a natural shine.
爪磨(つめみが)する
To buff one's nails.
面接(めんせつ)(まえ)爪磨(つめみが)しておいた。
I buffed my nails before the interview.
Even without going to a nail salon, just buffing your nails makes them look nice enough.
2. nail buffer; nail file
A tool used to smooth and polish the surface of nails.
爪磨(つめみが)()っている
Do you have a nail file?
Glass nail files last a long time.
It's handy to keep a nail file in your pouch when traveling.

Composed of (つめ) (nail) and (みが)き (polishing/buffing). Refers both to the grooming activity and the tool used. In Japanese grooming culture, clean and well-maintained nails are considered important for making a good impression, especially in business settings.

Common collocations

Similar words

  • (つめ)やすり: nail file — specifically a filing tool, may overlap with 爪磨(つめみが)
  • ネイルケア: nail care — broader term including all nail maintenance
  • 爪切(つめき): nail clippers — for trimming rather than polishing