mask

USAGE SUMMARY

'mask' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to either a physical covering worn over the face to protect against germs or other physical objects that are used to conceal, disguise, or protect something. Example sentence: She wore a protective mask when she entered the hospital.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His slate-gray eyes illegible behind a Lone Ranger mask.

The Guardian - Business

He [Aaron Jerome] wears this enormous mask.

The Guardian - Music

The death mask is that of Daniel Good, whose success in evading a police hunt for weeks after he murdered his wife in 1842 led to the formation of a dedicated team of detectives.

The Guardian

"I already knew that Bale was to be cast, but few people in China at that time knew that he's Batman – you don't often see his face because of the mask," Landreth says.

The Guardian - Film

A proxy can mask your online activity by relaying data (accessed through your browser) via a server in a different location, thus obfuscating the source of your original requests.

The Guardian - Tech

The first time we see through the painted smile to something more desolate…" After that, Stott suggests, there was always something discomforting about the person behind the mask.

The Guardian

He has taken off his mask and it has shown an ugly face".

The Guardian

Such good intentions don't always mask the flimsiness of the material.

The Guardian - Film

How the Biennale and related events are funded should be key public questions, especially in an age where far too many companies want to mask their dirty profit-making with shiny, artistic treats.

The Guardian - Opinion

Asked about his views on a satin eye mask, Schofield said: "Sorry, I was just watching the VT then – I got a bit distracted".

The Guardian

"We will not tolerate the Germanisation of western and northern Polish territories under the mask of Europeanisation".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "mask" in a technical context (e.g. computer science), ensure your audience understands that you are referring to a bitmask, not a physical mask.

Common error

Avoid using "mask" when you mean "masque", which refers to a type of dramatic entertainment popular in the 16th and 17th centuries. "Mask" generally refers to a physical covering or a means of concealment.

Linguistic Context

The word "mask" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a covering for the face, or as a verb, meaning to conceal or disguise. Ludwig examples show it used in contexts ranging from physical protection to figurative concealment, aligning with Ludwig AI's assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Arts

10%

Business

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "mask" functions as both a noun and a verb, denoting a covering or a means of concealment. It is grammatically correct and very common, as validated by Ludwig and exemplified in numerous contexts, including news, arts, and business. While versatile, careful attention should be paid to its distinct meaning compared to "masque". When writing, consider the audience's understanding of technical contexts. This guide, supported by Ludwig's analysis, helps ensure accurate and effective usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

facial covering

Refers specifically to an object worn over the face, emphasizing the physical aspect.

face guard

Emphasizes the protective function of covering the face.

disguise

Focuses on concealing identity or appearance.

camouflage

Highlights blending in with the environment.

veil

Implies a more subtle form of covering or concealment.

cover-up

Indicates an attempt to hide a mistake or wrongdoing.

false front

Suggests a deceptive appearance or pretense.

screen

Emphasizes the blocking or shielding aspect.

facade

Implies an outward appearance that hides a different reality.

pretense

Highlights the act of pretending or feigning.

FAQs

How can I use "mask" in a sentence?

You can use "mask" as a noun, referring to a face covering, or as a verb, meaning to conceal something. For example, "She wore a mask to the ball" or "The fog helped to mask their escape".

What are some alternatives to the word "mask"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "disguise", "veil", or "camouflage" to convey a similar meaning.

Which is correct, "mask" or "masque"?

"Mask" and "masque" are both correct, but they have different meanings. "Mask" refers to a face covering or the act of concealing, while "masque" refers to a form of dramatic entertainment.

What's the difference between "mask" and "hide"?

"Hide" is a more general term for concealing something, while "mask" often implies a deliberate effort to change appearance or obscure true nature. The purpose for using "hide" is to keep something secret, while "mask" is to change the appearance.