Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'makeup'

English Word: makeup

Key Russian Translations:

• макияж (/məˈkʲi.əʒ/) - [Neutral, Commonly used in everyday contexts]

Frequency: Medium (The word is frequently encountered in casual conversations, media, and beauty-related topics in Russian-speaking regions.)

Difficulty: A2 (Basic level; suitable for beginners, as it involves straightforward vocabulary without complex grammar, based on CEFR standards.)

Pronunciation (Russian):

макияж: /məˈkʲi.əʒ/ (The stress is on the second syllable, with a soft 'k' sound typical in Russian palatalization.)

Note on макияж: Be mindful of the soft sign (ь) which affects pronunciation, making the 'k' sound softer and more palatalized. This is a common feature in Russian words of French origin.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

Meaning 1: Cosmetic products or the act of applying makeup to enhance appearance.

Translation(s) & Context:

• макияж - Used in neutral, everyday contexts, such as discussing beauty routines or fashion.

Usage Examples:

• Я наношу макияж каждый день перед работой.

  I apply makeup every day before work. (This example shows the verb 'наношу' in present tense, illustrating routine daily use.)

• Её макияж был идеальным на вечеринке.

  Her makeup was perfect at the party. (Here, 'макияж' is used as a noun in a descriptive context, highlighting appearance in social settings.)

• Макияж для фотосессии требует специальных средств.

  Makeup for a photo shoot requires special products. (This demonstrates 'макияж' in a professional or specific scenario, emphasizing tools and preparation.)

• Без макияжа она выглядит естественно и свежо.

  Without makeup, she looks natural and fresh. (This example contrasts 'макияж' with a natural state, common in discussions about beauty standards.)

• Урок макияжа научил меня новым техникам.

  The makeup lesson taught me new techniques. (This shows 'макияж' in an educational context, varying the grammatical structure with genitive case.)

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Макияж" is a masculine noun in Russian, derived from French, and follows the standard declension pattern for third-declension nouns with a soft sign. It is invariable in plural form but changes in cases. Below is a table of its basic inflections:

Note: As a borrowed word, it has no irregular forms, making it relatively straightforward for learners.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms:
  • косметика (more general, referring to beauty products; often used interchangeably in casual speech)
  • грим (specific to theatrical or heavy makeup; implies a more dramatic context)
• Antonyms:
  • натуральность (naturalness; emphasizes a lack of artificial enhancement)
  • естественный вид (natural look; used when contrasting with makeup in beauty discussions)

Related Phrases:

• Вечерний макияж - Evening makeup style, often more elaborate for formal events.
• Ежедневный макияж - Daily makeup routine, referring to simple, everyday application.
• Профессиональный макияж - Professional makeup, used in contexts like modeling or photography.

Usage Notes:

"Макияж" directly corresponds to the English "makeup" in most contexts, but it is more commonly used as a noun rather than a verb. In Russian, you might pair it with verbs like "наносить" (to apply) for actions. Be aware of formal vs. informal settings: in professional beauty discussions, it's neutral, but in casual talk, it might imply everyday beauty routines. When choosing between synonyms like "косметика," opt for "макияж" if focusing on the application process rather than products. Grammatically, it requires correct case agreement, e.g., in prepositional phrases like "в макияже" (in the makeup).

Common Errors:

• Confusing "макияж" with "косметика": Learners might use "косметика" when "макияж" is more appropriate for the act of applying, e.g., Incorrect: "Я использую косметика каждый день" (wrong, as it should be "макияж" for application). Correct: "Я наношу макияж каждый день." Explanation: "Косметика" refers to products, while "макияж" encompasses the process.

• Improper case usage: For example, saying "Я вижу макияж" in accusative when it should be adjusted based on context, e.g., Incorrect: "Я думаю о макияж" (should be "макияже" in prepositional case). Correct: "Я думаю о макияже." Explanation: Russian requires case changes for grammatical flow, which English learners often overlook.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture, "макияж" is often tied to beauty standards influenced by media and fashion, especially in urban areas like Moscow. It reflects a blend of Western influences (due to its French origin) and traditional values, where natural beauty is praised, but elaborate makeup is common in social events. This word highlights the growing beauty industry in Russia, with trends evolving through social media.

Related Concepts:

• помада (lipstick)
• тушь (mascara)
• крем (cream, as in facial cream)