put on mascara

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "put on mascara" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the action of applying mascara to enhance the eyelashes as part of a makeup routine. Example: "Before heading out for the evening, she took a moment to put on mascara to complete her look."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

I don't put on mascara anymore, because it takes too long to dig it out".

The New Yorker

But the lines keep appearing in the oddest of places, like the one at the top of my nose that glares at me every time I put on mascara.

Huffington Post

Put on mascara.

WikiHow

Put on Mascara Wear mascara and curl your eyelashes to make your eyes look bigger and more open.

WikiHow

Try to put on mascara right before the show because it will easily start flaking and ruin the rest of the makeup.

WikiHow

A healthy and clear complexion is the best foundation there is! Start out with a foundation that perfectly matches your skin tone, with a light brush of powder, some blush on your cheek bones, for eyeshadow use peaches, coffee, light pinks, browns and tans, for lashes don't be afraid of mascara and sometimes if you put on mascara you sometimes don't need eyeshadow!

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

She was putting on mascara and red lipstick.

The New Yorker

The seeds had been planted in her mind some days before as she was putting on mascara to go on a date with someone else.

The New York Times

Dr. Ship questioned whether talking on the phone is "really any more dangerous than putting on mascara, shaving or reading a map while driving — all things we've seen drivers do".

The New York Times - Health

Before putting on mascara, clamp your eyelash curlers as close to the eyelash roots as possible and pump them as this gives a bigger curl than just holding the curlers down (a Tilbury trick).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I have fretted about this since long before people combined driving with putting on mascara, texting or illegally chatting on a cell phone.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions or tutorials, use "put on mascara" to clearly and simply convey the action of applying the product to eyelashes.

Common error

Avoid using excessive amounts of mascara, which can lead to clumping and a less natural appearance. Start with a light coat and build up as needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put on mascara" functions as a phrasal verb. It describes the action of applying mascara to eyelashes. As Ludwig AI indicates, this expression is a standard way to describe this step in a makeup routine. It directly conveys the process of enhancing one's eyelashes with mascara.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

35%

News & Media

35%

Reference

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Science

21%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "put on mascara" is a common and correct phrasal verb used to describe the action of applying mascara. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides examples from various sources. While alternatives like "apply mascara" exist, "put on mascara" is widely understood and suitable for both informal and neutral contexts. When using this phrase, remember to apply mascara carefully to avoid clumping, and consider it as a routine step in makeup tutorials or personal grooming discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

apply mascara

A more formal and direct synonym, focusing on the action of application.

wear mascara

Focuses on the state of having mascara applied, rather than the act of applying it.

coat eyelashes with mascara

Highlights the method of application and the target area.

use mascara

A general term referring to the act of employing mascara.

swipe on mascara

Describes the motion of applying mascara.

layer mascara

Implies applying multiple coats of mascara.

groom lashes with mascara

Suggests a more meticulous and careful application.

enhance lashes with mascara

Focuses on the purpose of using mascara.

define eyes with mascara

Highlights the effect of mascara on the eyes.

touch up lashes with mascara

Suggests a quick and light application.

FAQs

How do you use "put on mascara" in a sentence?

You can use "put on mascara" in sentences like "Before the party, she took the time to "put on mascara" to enhance her eyes" or "Put on mascara as the final step in your eye makeup routine".

What is an alternative to saying "put on mascara"?

Alternatives to "put on mascara" include "apply mascara", "wear mascara", or "coat lashes with mascara", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "put mascara on" instead of "put on mascara"?

While both are understandable, "put on mascara" is more idiomatic and commonly used. "Put mascara on" is less frequent but not grammatically incorrect. Consider choosing "put on mascara" for a more natural-sounding phrase.

What's the difference between "put on mascara" and "applying mascara"?

"Put on mascara" is a phrasal verb that describes the action of applying mascara in a more casual way, whereas "applying mascara" is a gerund phrase that represents the action of application more formally. Both are correct, but the choice depends on the context and desired tone.