Choosing the right eyeshadow palette as a student can be tricky, balancing budget, versatility, and ease of use. The wet n wild Color Icon 10-Pan Palette stands out as a great all-rounder for affordable, everyday looks, while the UCANBE Spotlight Palette offers a broad color range for more creative experimentation. For beginners, simplicity and blendability matter most, but those seeking more variety might prefer larger palettes like the 99 Colors Eyeshadow Palette. Many options compromise on either price, pan size, or pigmentation, so knowing what to prioritize is key. Keep reading to find the best fit for your needs and style.
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Key Takeaways
- Large palettes with diverse shades, like the UCANBE Spotlight, offer maximum versatility but can be overwhelming for new users.
- Budget-friendly options such as wet n wild provide good pigmentation and ease of use without breaking the bank.
- Smaller palettes like Walking On Eggshells are perfect for quick, natural looks but lack variety for bolder styles.
- Myth: More shades always mean better value; in reality, quality and pigmentation matter more than quantity.
- Beginners benefit from palettes with matte finishes and easy blending, avoiding overly glittery or complex formulas.
| 12 Color Nude Eyeshadow Palette, Neutral & Rose Gold Matte Shimmer Eye Shadow Palette for Mature Skin |  | Best Overall for Everyday Natural Looks | Color Story: Neutral Nude + Rose Pink | Finish: Matte & Shimmer | Number of Shades: 12 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UCANBE Neutral Smokey Eyeshadow Makeup Palette |  | Best for Versatility from Day to Night | Number of Shades: 40 | Finish Types: Matte, Satin, Pearl, Metallic Glitter | Application: Wet or dry | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 99 Colors Eyeshadow Palette – Matte & Glitter Makeup Kit with Brush |  | Best for Bright, Colorful Looks and Creativity | Number of Colors: 99 | Types of Shades: Matte and Shimmer | Includes: Eyeshadow Brush | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UCANBE 18 Colors Nude Eyeshadow Palette |  | Best for Portable, Everyday Nude Looks | Number of shades: 18 | Finish types: Matte, shimmer, satin, glitter | Texture: Creamy, velvety | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UCANBE Highly Pigmented Eye Makeup Palette, Matte Shimmer Metallic Eyeshadow Palette |  | Best for Versatile, Multi-Occasion Looks | Textures: Matte, Shimmer, Metallic | Shades: Various cool and warm tones | Packaging: Rectangle, lightweight, black | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UCANBE Baked Eyeshadow Makeup Palette with Hidden Gems, 16 Colors Nude Eye Shadow |  | Best for Versatility and Long-Lasting Wear | Number of shades: 16 | Finish: Matte, shimmer, metallic | Formulation: Baked | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| wet n wild Color Icon 10-Pan Eyeshadow Makeup Palette, Brown Nude Awakening |  | Best for Classic, Natural Looks with Easy Blending | Number of Shades: 10 | Finish Types: Matte, Satin, Shimmer, Metallic | Vegan: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UCANBE Spotlight Eyeshadow Palette – 40 Color Matte & Shimmer Makeup Palette |  | Best for Extensive Variety and Creative Freedom | Number of Shades: 40 | Matte shades: 18 | Shimmer shades: 22 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UCANBE Exotic Flavors Neon Eyeshadow Makeup Palette – 48 Colors |  | Best for Vibrant, Festival-Ready Looks | Number of Colors: 48 | Finish Types: Matte, shimmer, satin, glitter | Suitable For: Daily wear, parties, festivals | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| wet n wild Color Icon Eyeshadow 5-Pan Palette – Walking On Eggshells |  | Best for Compact, Versatile Looks for Beginners | Number of shades: 5 | Finish: Matte, shimmer, metallic | Cruelty-Free: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| eyeshadow palettes for student | Number of Shades | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| 12 Color Nude Eyeshadow Palett | 12 | Mature Skin, Beginners, Professional Makeup Artists |
| UCANBE Neutral Smokey Eyeshado | 40 | Day and night looks, casual to glamorous |
| 99 Colors Eyeshadow Palette | — | — |
| UCANBE 18 Colors Nude Eyeshado | 18 | — |
| UCANBE Highly Pigmented Eye Ma | — | Different skin tones and skin types |
| UCANBE Baked Eyeshadow Makeup | 16 | All skin tones |
| wet n wild Color Icon 10-Pan E | 10 | — |
| UCANBE Spotlight Eyeshadow Pal | 40 | — |
| UCANBE Exotic Flavors Neon Eye | — | Daily wear, parties, festivals |
| wet n wild Color Icon Eyeshado | 5 | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
12 Color Nude Eyeshadow Palette, Neutral & Rose Gold Matte Shimmer Eye Shadow Palette for Mature Skin
This palette stands out for its versatile mix of neutral and rose tones, making it perfect for creating subtle, everyday looks that suit mature skin and beginners alike. Compared with the larger 99-color palette, it offers a more curated selection that’s easier to navigate, but it sacrifices bold color options for simplicity. Its highly pigmented, blendable formula ensures a polished appearance with minimal effort, and the long-lasting wear reduces touch-ups. However, the limited shade variety means you won’t achieve dramatic or experimental looks. Ideal for students seeking a reliable, compact palette for daily wear.
Pros:- Versatile mix of matte and shimmer shades for multiple looks
- Highly pigmented and easy to blend
- Long-lasting wear without creasing
- Compact and travel-friendly design
Cons:- May require multiple layers for intense color payoff
- Limited shade variety for bold or dramatic looks
Best for: Students who prioritize natural, versatile shades for everyday use and prefer easy-to-blend formulas.
Not ideal for: Students looking to experiment with bold or colorful makeup looks, as the palette’s limited shade range may feel restrictive.
- Color Story:Neutral Nude + Rose Pink
- Finish:Matte & Shimmer
- Number of Shades:12
- Suitable for:Mature Skin, Beginners, Professional Makeup Artists
- Application:Blends effortlessly, long-lasting, minimal fallout
Our verdict“This palette is a solid choice for students who want a simple, reliable option for everyday, natural makeup.”
UCANBE Neutral Smokey Eyeshadow Makeup Palette
This palette offers a broad spectrum of 40 shades, making it ideal for students who want to transition seamlessly from casual day looks to dramatic evening styles. Unlike the 12-color palette, it provides more options for customization, but you’ll likely need a primer to keep shades vibrant all day, and some shades may require wet application for full vibrancy. Its blendability and long-lasting formula make it suitable for experimenting without frequent touch-ups, but its size and shade volume can feel overwhelming for beginners. This pick makes the most sense for students who want one versatile palette for multiple occasions.
Pros:- Wide range of shades for various looks
- Suitable for both natural and smoky styles
- Long-lasting and blendable formula
- Can be used wet or dry for different effects
Cons:- Requires eyeshadow primer for all-day wear
- Some shades need wet application for vibrancy
Best for: Students who want a single, adaptable palette for everyday wear and special events, and don’t mind extra prep work.
Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer straightforward, smaller palettes or those who dislike needing primer or wet application for certain shades.
- Number of Shades:40
- Finish Types:Matte, Satin, Pearl, Metallic Glitter
- Application:Wet or dry
- Suitable for:Day and night looks, casual to glamorous
Our verdict“This palette is excellent for students seeking a comprehensive, adaptable set for multiple styles, with some prep required.”
99 Colors Eyeshadow Palette – Matte & Glitter Makeup Kit with Brush
This palette’s 99 shades provide an expansive palette of vibrant colors, making it an exciting choice for students eager to experiment or create bold, artistic looks. However, its sheer size and overwhelming number of options may make it difficult for beginners to navigate, and colors often require multiple layers for full intensity. The waterproof, long-lasting formula is a plus, but blending can be tricky without prior experience. Compared with smaller palettes, this one offers unmatched variety but demands more skill and patience. Ideal for students who want a versatile, colorful collection for fun and expressive makeup.
Pros:- Vibrant and diverse color selection
- Long-lasting, waterproof formula
- Includes applicator brush for convenience
- Suitable for various occasions and styles
Cons:- Colors may need multiple layers for intensity
- Potentially difficult to blend for beginners
- No specific skin safety information
Best for: Students with some makeup experience or those willing to learn, seeking a wide, colorful palette for creative expression.
Not ideal for: Beginners or students who prefer quick, simple looks, as the palette’s size and color complexity can be daunting.
- Number of Colors:99
- Types of Shades:Matte and Shimmer
- Includes:Eyeshadow Brush
- Waterproof:Yes
Our verdict“This palette suits students ready to explore bold, creative makeup with patience and practice.”
UCANBE 18 Colors Nude Eyeshadow Palette
This palette offers 18 shades that combine matte, shimmer, satin, and glitter finishes, providing enough variety for versatile, everyday nude looks. Its creamy, velvety texture makes blending straightforward, and the compact design with a mirror makes it perfect for students on the go. While it’s less extensive than the 40-shade palette, it’s more manageable for beginners and those who prefer subtle enhancements. Some shades are quite similar, which might limit creative options, but it’s a reliable choice for quick, natural makeup. This pick makes sense for students prioritizing portability and easy application.
Pros:- Highly pigmented and long-lasting shades
- Versatile finishes including matte, shimmer, and glitter
- Smooth, easy-to-blend formula
- Compact packaging with mirror for travel
Cons:- May require multiple layers for intense shimmer
- Some shades are similar in tone
Best for: Students wanting a simple, travel-friendly palette for everyday, natural looks without complexity.
Not ideal for: Students seeking bold, dramatic, or highly colorful makeup options, as the shades are mostly neutral.
- Number of shades:18
- Finish types:Matte, shimmer, satin, glitter
- Texture:Creamy, velvety
- Application:Easy to blend, buildable
Our verdict“This palette is perfect for students who want a straightforward, portable nude collection for daily wear.”
UCANBE Highly Pigmented Eye Makeup Palette, Matte Shimmer Metallic Eyeshadow Palette
This palette offers a range of cool and warm shades in matte, shimmer, and metallic textures, making it suitable for students who want to craft a variety of looks from understated to glamorous. Its portable rectangle design appeals to those on the move, and the different textures allow for creative experimentation. However, metallic shades may cause fallout, and blending some shades to achieve full pigmentation can be a challenge for beginners. Compared to the 99-color palette, it’s less overwhelming and more targeted for versatile everyday and evening styles, but it might require some practice to master the metallic finishes. Ideal for students seeking a flexible, portable palette that covers multiple styles with ease.
Pros:- Versatile shades and finishes for endless looks
- Portable, lightweight packaging
- Suitable for both beginners and pros
- Includes a range of tones for different skin types
Cons:- May require blending for intense color payoff
- Limited info on specific shade range
- Potential fallout with metallic shades
Best for: Students who want a compact, multi-finish palette capable of creating many looks with some blending skill.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners who prefer simple, foolproof palettes or those sensitive to fallout from metallic shades.
- Textures:Matte, Shimmer, Metallic
- Shades:Various cool and warm tones
- Packaging:Rectangle, lightweight, black
- Suitable for:Different skin tones and skin types
Our verdict“This palette suits students wanting versatile textures and shades in a portable format, with some technique needed for metallics.”
UCANBE Baked Eyeshadow Makeup Palette with Hidden Gems, 16 Colors Nude Eye Shadow
This palette stands out for its blend of 16 pigmented shades in neutral tones, offering a broad range of looks from natural to bold. Unlike the UCANBE 40-Color Spotlight Palette, it prioritizes ease of use and portability, making it ideal for students who want variety without overwhelming size. Its baked formula provides a smooth, blendable, waterproof finish that stays put through long days. The lack of a shade count exceeding 16 keeps it manageable for beginners, but it might lack the bold vibrancy some users desire compared to the Neon palette. Overall, this makes an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, versatile everyday palette with minimal fuss.
Pros:- Versatile range of 16 pigmented shades for various looks
- Long-lasting, waterproof, and crease-free formula
- Suitable for both beginners and professionals
Cons:- Limited shade variety for those wanting more color options
- No overly bold or bright shades for statement looks
Best for: Students who want a simple, easy-to-use palette with long-lasting, waterproof shades for daily wear
Not ideal for: Advanced makeup artists or students seeking highly vibrant, bold colors for creative or festival looks
- Number of shades:16
- Finish:Matte, shimmer, metallic
- Formulation:Baked
- Waterproof:Yes
- Suitable for:All skin tones
Our verdict“This palette is perfect for students who want reliable, everyday neutrals with long wear, but it may feel limited for those craving bold colors.”
wet n wild Color Icon 10-Pan Eyeshadow Makeup Palette, Brown Nude Awakening
Compared to larger palettes like UCANBE Spotlight, this 10-shade palette offers a curated set of versatile neutrals that are highly pigmented and effortless to blend. Its selection of matte, satin, shimmer, and metallic finishes makes it adaptable for everyday or more polished looks without overwhelming a beginner’s toolkit. However, with only 10 shades, it might feel restrictive for students wanting more options for experimentation. It’s a dependable choice for those who prefer a more compact, beginner-friendly palette that delivers quality at an affordable price, though it might require a primer to maximize longevity.
Pros:- Highly pigmented and easy to blend
- Versatile finishes for various looks
- Long-lasting wearability
Cons:- Limited shade variety for diverse creativity
- Colors may appear different on skin than in the pan
- May require primer for best longevity
Best for: Students seeking a compact, beginner-friendly palette for natural and professional daytime looks
Not ideal for: Makeup enthusiasts looking for bold, colorful, or highly varied shades for creative projects
- Number of Shades:10
- Finish Types:Matte, Satin, Shimmer, Metallic
- Vegan:Yes
- Cruelty-Free:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for students who want a straightforward, reliable palette for everyday neutrals, but it’s less suited for bold or experimental looks.”
UCANBE Spotlight Eyeshadow Palette – 40 Color Matte & Shimmer Makeup Palette
This 40-shade palette offers an extensive array of vibrant colors, bridging the gap between everyday and statement looks more effectively than the 16-shade UCANBE Baked palette. Its highly pigmented, crease-resistant shades can be applied dry or wet, giving students the flexibility to experiment with different effects. However, the large size and oversized pans can make precise application challenging for beginners, especially those with smaller brushes or limited experience. This palette suits students eager for a broad spectrum of colors and willing to work with its size for creative projects, but it might be overwhelming for those seeking simplicity or portability.
Pros:- Highly pigmented with vibrant colors
- Versatile for natural to dramatic looks
- Long-lasting and crease-resistant
- Can be applied dry or wet
Cons:- Oversized pans can be difficult for precise application
- Some shades may need multiple layers for opacity
Best for: Students interested in a wide array of colors for creative, bold, or festival looks willing to manage larger palettes
Not ideal for: Beginners or students with limited storage space who prefer smaller, more manageable palettes
- Number of Shades:40
- Matte shades:18
- Shimmer shades:22
- Waterproof:Yes
- Long-lasting:Yes
Our verdict“Perfect for students who want a comprehensive palette for expressive, bold looks, though its size may be a drawback for portability.”
UCANBE Exotic Flavors Neon Eyeshadow Makeup Palette – 48 Colors
This palette delivers a burst of 48 vivid shades, surpassing the more neutral options like the Baked palette in terms of boldness and fun. Its wide variety of matte, shimmer, satin, and glitter finishes makes it ideal for students who want to experiment with colorful, festival, or party looks. The silky textures are easy to blend and long-lasting, but some glitter shades may need setting spray to prevent fallout, and the packaging might be fragile during shipping. It’s best suited for students who want to explore vibrant color schemes without investing in multiple palettes, though it may be less practical for everyday subtle looks.
Pros:- Wide variety of vibrant shades
- Long-lasting, silky textures
- Suitable for beginners and pros alike
Cons:- Glitter shades may require setting spray
- Fragile packaging could break during shipping
Best for: Students wanting a vivid, colorful palette for parties, festivals, or creative experimentation
Not ideal for: Students seeking subtle, everyday neutrals or those concerned about packaging durability
- Number of Colors:48
- Finish Types:Matte, shimmer, satin, glitter
- Suitable For:Daily wear, parties, festivals
Our verdict“Excellent for students eager to explore a rainbow of colors for bold looks, though packing durability might be a concern.”
wet n wild Color Icon Eyeshadow 5-Pan Palette – Walking On Eggshells
Compared to larger, more complex palettes, this 5-shade option offers a straightforward way for students to create multiple looks with minimal fuss. Its buttery-soft, blendable pigments include a good mix of matte and metallic finishes, making it easy to mix and match for day or night. While the limited shade count keeps things simple, it may feel restrictive for students wanting more variety or deep experimentation. It’s an excellent starter palette for those who value portability and ease of use, though it might require a primer to ensure longevity, especially with the metallic shades.
Pros:- Highly pigmented and blendable shades
- Long-lasting wear
- Versatile finishes for various looks
- Cruelty-free
Cons:- Limited to 5 shades, restricting variety
- May need primer for better longevity
Best for: Students new to makeup who want a small, easy-to-use palette for basic, versatile looks
Not ideal for: Students seeking extensive color options or highly bold, statement shades
- Number of shades:5
- Finish:Matte, shimmer, metallic
- Cruelty-Free:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for makeup beginners or students needing a compact, versatile palette for everyday looks, but it’s limited in color options.”
How We Picked
Our selection process focused on affordability, ease of use, and variety—key factors for students. We evaluated each palette’s pigmentation, blendability, and texture, ensuring they are suitable for everyday wear and beginner use. Durability and build quality were also considered, since students need reliable products that last through busy days. Finally, we prioritized options that balance price with quality, providing good value without sacrificing performance, which is especially important for students on a budget. The ranking reflects a mix of versatility, user-friendliness, and overall value for casual, everyday makeup needs.| eyeshadow palettes for student | Suitable for |
|---|---|
| 12 Color Nude Eyeshadow Palett | Mature Skin, Beginners, Professional Makeup Artists |
| UCANBE Neutral Smokey Eyeshado | Day and night looks, casual to glamorous |
| 99 Colors Eyeshadow Palette | — |
| UCANBE 18 Colors Nude Eyeshado | — |
| UCANBE Highly Pigmented Eye Ma | Different skin tones and skin types |
| UCANBE Baked Eyeshadow Makeup | All skin tones |
| wet n wild Color Icon 10-Pan E | — |
| UCANBE Spotlight Eyeshadow Pal | — |
| UCANBE Exotic Flavors Neon Eye | Daily wear, parties, festivals |
| wet n wild Color Icon Eyeshado | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Eyeshadow Palettes For Students
When choosing an eyeshadow palette as a student, considering several factors can help you find a product that matches your style and routine. Beyond price, think about the color range—do you prefer neutral shades or more colorful options? Ease of application is also critical, especially if you’re new to makeup. Additionally, quality matters: good pigmentation, blendability, and longevity will make your look effortless and last longer. Storage size and packaging should also fit your lifestyle, whether you need something compact for on-the-go touch-ups or larger palettes for experimenting at home. Lastly, avoid palettes with overly complex formulas that might be difficult to work with early on.Color Range and Versatility
For students, versatility is often a priority. Neutral palettes are great for everyday looks, but having a few pops of color or shimmer can add variety without overcomplicating your routine. Larger palettes like the UCANBE Spotlight give you lots of options, but smaller, curated sets like the Walking On Eggshells can be perfect for quick, natural styles. Consider whether you prefer a palette that emphasizes mattes, shimmers, or a mix, as this influences your ability to create different looks effortlessly. Remember, a broad color range isn’t always better if it overwhelms you or lacks quality in some shades.
Ease of Use and Application
Beginners should prioritize palettes that are easy to blend and have good pigmentation right out of the box. Matte shades tend to be more forgiving for those still mastering application techniques, making palettes like the wet n wild Color Icon a sensible choice. Avoid overly glittery or highly pigmented formulas that can be difficult to control without experience. Consider palettes with clear labels or shade descriptions, which help streamline your routine and build confidence. Simplicity and user-friendliness are often more valuable than having dozens of shades that are hard to work with.
Quality and Pigmentation
While price is a big factor, quality often determines how much you get out of your purchase. Look for palettes with rich pigmentation that don’t require multiple layers, saving time and effort. Texture matters—smooth, velvety formulas tend to blend better and produce more even color deposition. Avoid palettes with patchy or chalky shades, which can frustrate beginners and waste product. Well-made palettes also tend to last longer and maintain their color vibrancy over time, making them a smarter investment for ongoing use.
Size, Portability, and Packaging
Students often need makeup that travels well and fits into small bags or cases, so compact packaging is a plus. Smaller palettes like Walking On Eggshells are ideal for portability, while larger options suit those who prefer experimenting at home. Look for sturdy cases that won’t break easily and simple layouts that make selecting shades quick. Consider whether you want a magnetic or snap closure, especially if you carry your makeup daily. Remember, larger palettes can be tempting but may be less convenient for on-the-go touch-ups.
Price and Value
Pricing varies widely, but the best choice balances affordability with quality. Lower-cost palettes like wet n wild often deliver surprising performance, making them excellent for students on a budget. However, investing a little more in a palette with better pigmentation and longevity can pay off in the long run, especially if you use makeup regularly. Watch for sales or value packs—sometimes buying larger palettes offers better cost per shade. Avoid cheap, poorly pigmented options that require multiple layers and waste product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are larger palettes worth it for a student just starting out?
Larger palettes can be a good investment if you enjoy experimenting with different looks and want a wide variety of shades. They often provide better value per shade, and the variety can inspire creativity. However, they might be overwhelming for absolute beginners who prefer simpler routines. If you’re just starting out, a smaller, curated palette with versatile shades could be more manageable and less intimidating. Ultimately, larger palettes make sense if you plan to build a more extensive collection over time and are willing to learn how to blend and mix shades effectively.
Should I prioritize matte or shimmer shades in my palette?
For students, matte shades are generally more versatile for everyday wear and easier to blend, making them a popular choice for beginners. Shimmers add dimension and can elevate simple looks, but they sometimes require more skill to apply smoothly. A balanced palette that includes both matte and shimmer shades offers the most flexibility, allowing you to create subtle or more glamorous styles. If you’re new to makeup, starting with matte shades and gradually exploring shimmer options might be the best approach to avoid frustration.
How do I choose shades that will suit my skin tone?
Choosing shades that complement your skin tone enhances your overall look. For fair skin, soft neutrals and light browns work well, while deeper skin tones can pull off richer, more pigmented shades. Warm undertones often suit warm colors like golds and bronzes, whereas cool undertones look great with pinks and plums. Many palettes are designed with a variety of shades to accommodate different skin tones, so look for options that include both neutral and accent colors. Testing shades in natural light helps ensure they enhance your complexion rather than wash you out.
Are cheap eyeshadow palettes worth buying for students?
Many affordable palettes offer surprisingly good quality, making them a smart choice for students who want to experiment without a large investment. Look for brands with positive reviews on pigmentation and blendability, as some budget options deliver decent performance. Be cautious of palettes with chalky textures or patchy shades, as they can be frustrating and waste product. Remember, a higher price doesn’t always guarantee better quality—prioritize performance and durability to get the best value from your purchase.
What should I avoid in an eyeshadow palette as a beginner?
Beginners should steer clear of palettes with overly glittery or metallic shades that can be difficult to control, as well as complex color combinations that require advanced blending skills. Avoid palettes with poor pigmentation or patchy textures, which can lead to frustration and wasted product. Also, steer away from overly large palettes if you’re just starting out, as they may be overwhelming and hard to manage. Simplified, matte-focused palettes with easy-to-blend shades are usually the best starting point for those new to makeup.
Conclusion
For students seeking a straightforward, everyday option, the wet n wild Color Icon 10-Pan Palette offers reliable performance at a budget-friendly price. Those wanting a broader range of shades for creative looks should consider the UCANBE Spotlight Palette, especially if they’re comfortable experimenting. Beginners will benefit most from palettes with matte finishes and forgiving textures, such as the smaller or mid-sized options. For those ready to invest in better quality or more sophisticated styles, a slightly pricier palette with diverse finishes could be worth it. Choose based on your skill level, budget, and how much variety you want to explore in your makeup routine.
