Is 'Apply Lipstick' or 'Wear Lipstick' the Correct Verb? A Closer Look

When it comes to applying cosmetics, particularly lipstick, many might wonder whether to use 'apply lipstick' or 'wear lipstick.' This article explores the nuances of using these verbs, their appropriate contexts, and the grammatical differences they convey.

Understanding the Verbs

Both 'apply lipstick' and 'wear lipstick' can be accurate, but they imply different actions and timeframes. Let's delve into each verb to understand their usage.

Apply Lipstick

Using 'apply lipstick' is the correct term when describing the immediate action of putting the lipstick onto your lips. This verb emphasizes the act of application, which could involve smoothing the lipstick over the lips with a wand, sponge, or finger. For example:

"She was at her dressing table applying lipstick when the power went off." In this context, 'applying' indicates a continuous and ongoing action, not yet complete.

Wear Lipstick

'Wear lipstick,' on the other hand, refers to the state of having lipstick on your lips after it has been applied. This verb suggests that the lipstick has already been applied and is now remaining on the lips for a period of time. For instance:

"The little girl's mother caught her wearing lipstick and told her to wait for a few years." Here, 'wearing' conveys that the lipstick is already on the lips and will stay there.

Contextual Usage

Both verbs are correct, but they are used in different contexts.

Usage with Other Products

When using terms similar to 'lipstick,' such as 'cream,' the verb 'apply' is typically used:

"Applying a cream on the face." This usage emphasizes the act of applying the cream, such as massaging a moisturizing cream into the skin.

Usage with Different Articles of Clothing

Similarly, when talking about articles of clothing like a T-shirt or jeans, you would use 'wear' to describe the state of having them on:

"Wearing a T-shirt" or "wearing jeans."

Grasping the Subtleties

The difference between 'apply' and 'wear' becomes clearer when looking at the acts involved:

Apply: 'Applying' is the process of placing or spreading something onto a surface. This is a transient action and can be continuous or completed. Wear: 'Wearing' is the state of having something on your body. It is a static action that has already occurred and indicates current presence.

Practical Examples

Here are some practical examples to further illustrate the correct usage:

A. Both of them are correct. B. First, you are to apply lipstick over the lips. This is called 'applying a lipstick." C. Then, you are to allow it to be on the lips for a few minutes or hours. This is called 'wearing a lipstick."

In these examples, 'applying' describes the act of putting lipstick on the lips, while 'wearing' describes the state of having lipstick on the lips for a period of time.

Final Thoughts

Both 'apply lipstick' and 'wear lipstick' are correct, but their usage depends on the context and the timeframe. 'Apply' is used to describe the act of putting lipstick on, while 'wear' describes the state of having lipstick on for an extended period. Understanding these nuances can help you communicate effectively when discussing makeup application and usage.

Key Takeaways

'Apply lipstick' refers to the act of putting lipstick on. 'Wear lipstick' indicates the state of having lipstick on for a period of time. 'Apply' is used for the action, and 'wear' for the state of the application.

By grasping these differences, you can use these verbs more accurately and effectively in your conversations and content creation.