makeup

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "makeup" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to cosmetics such as powder, lipstick, foundation, and other products that are applied to the face to improve one's appearance. Example sentence: I like to experiment with different types of makeup to find the look I want.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Film

Opinion

Music

Business

Sport

Arts

Books

TV & Radio

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

George Cukor, the second of four directors on the picture, got rid of the blonde wig and doll's makeup that Garland had been given, presumably to imitate Temple, and stressed the character's naturalness, a quality the younger star often lacked.

The Guardian - Film

First, they're all just one person with really good makeup and access to holograms.

The Guardian

Related: Nigel Farage steps up attack on BBC after Question Time row He said: "In just two days' time you'll have the opportunity to vote on the makeup of the House of Commons.

The Guardian

While I wouldn't recommend buying a foundation from Poundland (bit green), or its makeup brushes (you can do better at an art shop) there are several products you can happily invest in.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Businesses with more than 100 employees currently have to report on the gender makeup of the workplace to the Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA).

The Guardian

Repeated studies on the makeup of the legal profession have shown that, despite efforts to widen participation, such criticisms are fair.

The Guardian - Opinion

House parties, gigs at the Boardwalk, shouty music, jumping along to Reel Big Fish, Arctic Monkeys – "My sister knows them" – and the sticky, oozing floor of Corp where we'd make eyes at each other in goth makeup and drink Red Bull.

The Guardian - Music

Even after being called the rudest person his makeup artist has ever worked on, former prime minister Kevin Rudd kept his seat - although it was in danger.

The Guardian

Peter Snow, who arrives in a moss-green cashmere half-zip sweater from John Lewis, is inspiringly positive about being photographed in a different look – "Makeup!

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The diverse cast was as politically correct in its makeup as the script is politically incorrect in its references.

The Guardian - Opinion

When the makeup artist put the hair on me I was like, 'I know who this person is…'"  A sickly German clone who made contact with Beth before she died "My grandmother is German so she helped me with the dialect.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be mindful of the context, as "makeup" can refer both to cosmetics and to the composition of something.

Common error

Avoid writing "make up" (two words) when you mean the noun "makeup" (one word, referring to cosmetics). "Make up" as two words is a verb, meaning to invent or reconcile.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "makeup" is as a noun, referring to either cosmetic products used for enhancing appearance or the composition of something. Ludwig AI confirms the dual usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Lifestyle

15%

Film

10%

Less common in

Opinion

8%

Music

7%

Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "makeup" is a versatile noun with two primary meanings: cosmetics and composition. Its grammatical correctness is supported by Ludwig AI. It appears most frequently in news and lifestyle contexts, maintaining a neutral register. When writing, be aware of the two different meanings of "makeup" and make sure the context makes the meaning clear. Alternative phrases, such as "cosmetics" and "composition", can be used to provide more specific nuance. Ultimately, understanding the intended meaning and context is key to effective use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make-up

An alternative spelling with identical meaning and usage to "makeup".

cosmetics

Refers specifically to products used to enhance appearance, a subset of "makeup".

cosmetic products

A more descriptive term for items used for beautification, similar to "makeup".

composition

Focuses on the components of something, a broader meaning than the cosmetic sense of "makeup".

constitution

Implies the fundamental structure or nature of something, similar to one sense of "makeup".

replacement

Focuses on substituting something, relevant when "makeup" refers to making up for a deficit.

facial enhancements

Highlights the aspect of improving facial appearance, a specific use of "makeup".

elements

Refers to the basic parts of something, similar to the idea of composition in "makeup".

physical composition

Emphasizes the tangible elements that form something, mirroring one aspect of "makeup".

war paint

A more figurative or historical term for "makeup", suggesting adornment.

FAQs

How can I use "makeup" in a sentence?

You can use "makeup" to refer to cosmetics, as in "She applied her "makeup" before going out". You can also use it to describe the composition of something, such as "The "makeup" of the team was diverse".

What's the difference between "makeup" and "make-up"?

"Makeup" and "make-up" are both acceptable spellings for cosmetics. "Make-up" is less common but still correct. The single-word spelling, "makeup", is generally preferred today.

What can I say instead of "makeup" (cosmetics)?

You can use alternatives like "cosmetics", "cosmetic products" or "facial enhancements", depending on the specific context.

What can I say instead of "makeup" (composition)?

You can use alternatives like "composition", "constitution", or "physical composition" to describe the parts that form something.