What it's NOT
mascara does NOT translate to máscara.
To say "máscara" in English, use mask.
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False cognate · False friend
mascara
Does NOT mean máscara
It means eyelash makeup
Written by Bryan López, English teacher · Updated
What it IS
mascara means eyelash makeup.
Why it's confused
Spanish "máscara" is the mask or disguise that covers the face. English "mascara" is the makeup applied to eyelashes. A face mask in English is "mask."
How it's pronounced
mascaramas-CÁ-ra
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Examples of correct use
English
She applied mascara to her lashes.
Spanish
Se puso rímel en las pestañas.
English
Waterproof mascara lasts all day.
Spanish
El rímel a prueba de agua dura todo el día.
A trick to remember it
Mascara = eyelash makeup. A face mask (Spanish "máscara") = mask.
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Frequently asked questions
What does "mascara" mean in English?
"Mascara" means "eyelash makeup". It looks a lot like "máscara", which is exactly why it gets confused, but they don't mean the same thing.
How do you say "máscara" in English?
To say "máscara" in English, use "mask". If you use "mascara" instead, you would actually be saying "eyelash makeup".
Do "mascara" and "máscara" mean the same thing?
Spanish "máscara" is the mask or disguise that covers the face. English "mascara" is the makeup applied to eyelashes. A face mask in English is "mask."
Other confusing false friends
More confusing false friends
Library, embarrassed, actually... the full list of words that look the same but mean something different.
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