Portuguese Phrase
Não, eu não uso maquiagem.
Meaning
The sentence means “No, I don’t wear makeup.” It is a straightforward way to state a personal habit or to politely decline a suggestion that involves makeup.
When to use
Use this phrase when someone asks you if you wear makeup, when you want to clarify that you prefer a natural look, or when you need to refuse an invitation that involves applying makeup.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Nãoeunãousomaquiagem
Negação dupla
In Portuguese, a sentence can contain two negatives (Não ... não ...) which reinforce each other; both are required for a correct negative statement.
Pronoun 'eu'
The subject pronoun 'eu' (I) is optional in Portuguese but is used here for emphasis or clarity.
Verbo 'usar'
The verb 'usar' means 'to use' or 'to wear' (clothing, accessories, makeup). It is conjugated in the present indicative: eu uso.
Substantivo 'maquiagem'
A feminine noun meaning 'makeup'. No article is needed after the verb 'usar' when talking about habits.
🗨In Conversation
Você usa maquiagem?
Do you wear makeup?
Não, eu não uso maquiagem.
No, I don’t wear makeup.
✕Common Mistakes
Não eu não uso maquiagem.
Missing comma after 'Não' makes the sentence sound rushed; the pause is important for natural speech.
Não, eu não uso a maquiagem.
The definite article 'a' is unnecessary when talking about the habit of wearing makeup.
Não, eu não uso maquiagem?
A question mark changes the meaning; this sentence is a statement, not a question.
↔Alternatives
Não, eu não coloco maquiagem.
No, I don’t put on makeup.
Não, eu não me maquio.
No, I don’t do my makeup.
Não, eu não uso cosméticos.
No, I don’t use cosmetics.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, makeup is a personal choice and attitudes vary by region and age group. Saying you don’t wear makeup is perfectly normal, but be mindful of tone—using a friendly smile can keep the exchange light. In more formal settings, you might simply say “Não, não uso maquiagem” without the subject pronoun for a more concise response.