zong1

Jyutpingzong1
Yalejōng
Uncommon

Definition

To apply makeup; to adorn oneself or dress up.

  1. to apply makeup; to adorn oneself
  2. theatricalstage makeup and costume
colloquialclothingdaily actions

How it's used

While 粧 is the standard character for makeup, you will frequently see it written as 妝 in modern Hong Kong. Both are acceptable and interchangeable in daily life. It is almost exclusively used as a noun or part of the verb phrase 化粧.

Examples

She put on beautiful makeup to go to the wedding banquet.

Common phrases

to put on a nice face of makeup

Common mistake

Learners often confuse the verb phrase 化粧 with the simple act of applying products. Remember that 化粧 is a compound verb, so you cannot simply say 粧咗; you must use the full phrase 化咗粧.

Grammar color guide

Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector