faa3 zong1化粧

Jyutpingfaa3 zong1

Yalefa jōng

Definition

To apply makeup to the face.

colloquialdaily actionsclothing

How it's used

While the character 化 is used in many contexts, 化粧 specifically refers to applying cosmetics to the face. It is frequently used as a verb-object construction, allowing for the insertion of aspect markers like 咗 or緊 directly between 化 and 妝. It carries a neutral tone and is the standard way to describe the daily routine of getting ready.

Common phrases

faa3化go3個

to put on a nice makeup look

faa3化

to wear heavy makeup

Common mistake

Learners often confuse this with the Mandarin usage where 化妝 can sometimes be used more broadly. In Cantonese, avoid using it to describe general dressing up or costuming, as there are more specific terms for those activities.