a handsome prince

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a handsome prince" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe a male character, typically in fairy tales or romantic stories. Example: "Once upon a time, in a faraway kingdom, there was a handsome prince named Alexander. He was admired by all for his kind heart and dashing looks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A handsome prince who doted on her.

The New Yorker

Then a handsome prince captures his heart.

The Guardian

A handsome prince and a beautiful actor.

The Guardian

And every night, when the sun goes down, the pig becomes a handsome prince.

The New York Times - Arts

She is sent to Rome, where she meets a handsome prince.

The New Yorker

For her, "happily ever after" involves a lot more than marriage to a handsome prince.

The New York Times

Once upon a time, there was a handsome prince who went in search of a bride.

The Guardian - Opinion

Maybe it just needs waking up again by a handsome prince who isn't you?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A handsome prince entered, striding purposefully, his virile, confident voice offering her solace.

The New York Times - Arts

As young purists might demand, this dance-theater adaptation includes a delicate heroine, a handsome prince and an evil queen.

The New York Times - Arts

my image is that it's a sleeping princess that's waiting for a handsome prince to wake it up.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When crafting narratives, remember that the traditional trope of "a handsome prince" can be a starting point, but it's essential to give the character depth and agency beyond physical appearance.

Common error

Avoid using "a handsome prince" as a flat, one-dimensional character. Readers expect depth, so provide inner thoughts, motivations, and challenges to make the character engaging and relatable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a handsome prince" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It typically describes a male character embodying idealized attractiveness and often royal status. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is a common trope, especially in fairy tales.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a handsome prince" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase, particularly in the context of fairy tales and romantic stories. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to describe an idealized male character, often associated with royalty and attractiveness. While its register is generally informal, its presence in news and media suggests broader applicability. When using this phrase, be aware of potential stereotypes and strive for character depth. Consider alternatives like "dashing prince" or "charming prince" for nuanced descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dashing prince

Focuses on the prince's charm and attractiveness.

a charming prince

Highlights the prince's pleasant and engaging personality.

a noble prince

Emphasizes the prince's high social status and moral character.

a fairytale prince

Specifically references the prince's origin in fairy tales.

a storybook prince

Similar to fairytale prince, emphasizing the prince's origin in stories.

a royal suitor

Highlights the prince's role as a potential husband.

a princely figure

Describes someone who resembles a prince in appearance or demeanor.

an eligible bachelor of royal descent

Formal and descriptive, emphasizing marital prospects and lineage.

a crown prince

Designates the prince as the heir to the throne.

a man of royal lineage

Highlights the individual's noble ancestry.

FAQs

How can I use "a handsome prince" in a sentence?

You can use "a handsome prince" to describe a male character, typically in fairy tales or romantic stories. For example: "The story revolved around a princess and "a handsome prince" who had to overcome many challenges to be together."

What can I say instead of "a handsome prince"?

You can use alternatives like "a dashing prince", "a charming prince", or "a noble prince" depending on the context and the specific qualities you want to emphasize.

Is it appropriate to use "a handsome prince" in modern fiction?

Yes, but be mindful of the potential for stereotypes. Consider subverting expectations or adding depth to the character to make him more relevant to contemporary readers. The traditional trope is fine as a starting point, but consider adding more depth to the character.

What are some common themes associated with "a handsome prince" in literature?

Common themes include love, heroism, destiny, and overcoming adversity. In many stories, "a handsome prince" represents hope and salvation for the protagonist.