both are handsome

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "both are handsome" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to two individuals who possess attractive physical features. Example: "In the movie, both are handsome, making it hard to choose a favorite character."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Both are handsome trees, the European growing to 18 metres (60 feet), twice the height of the American species, and yielding several cultivated varieties popular in landscaping.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The comparison with Hakimullah Mehsud sits well - both were handsome young men with an aggressive instinct.

BBC

Both Preda and Bergün are handsome, traditional villages, whose 19th-century houses are covered in sgraffito plasterwork and have little wrought-iron balconies (stmoritz.ch; glacierexpress.ch; sbb.ch).

Independent

Both Mr. Smits and Mr. Krause are handsome leading men, but Mr. Smits is not much of an actor; in repose, he looks blank.

The New York Times

His profits are handsome.

The New Yorker

Their jackets are handsome, too.

The New York Times

The surroundings are handsome.

The New York Times

There are handsome moments.

The New York Times - Arts

The seats are handsome and supportive.

The New York Times

Andrew Mueller Jaguars are handsome, but elusive.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The men are handsome stalwarts.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing appearance, consider the context and choose the most appropriate term. While "handsome" is typically used for men, "attractive" or "good-looking" can be used for anyone.

Common error

Avoid using "handsome" to describe women; instead, opt for terms like "beautiful", "attractive", or "good-looking".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both are handsome" functions as a descriptive phrase, specifically a predicative adjective phrase. It attributes the quality of being "handsome" to two subjects. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Social Media

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "both are handsome" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable expression used to convey that two subjects possess appealing physical attributes. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is suitable for use in writing. While "handsome" is more often employed for males, the phrase can be broadly used, bearing in mind the gendered implications. While it appears most often in news media, its use spans various contexts and registers. Alternatives include "both are attractive" or "both are good-looking" for broader applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

both are attractive

Replaces "handsome" with a more general term for attractiveness.

both are good-looking

Uses a common synonym for "handsome".

both are beautiful

Emphasizes a higher degree of attractiveness, potentially more suitable for feminine subjects.

both are appealing

Focuses on the pleasing quality of their appearance.

both possess striking features

Highlights distinct and attractive physical attributes.

both have an attractive appearance

A more formal way of expressing that they are good-looking.

both are blessed with good looks

Implies that their attractiveness is a result of fortune or nature.

both exhibit a pleasing aesthetic

Uses more sophisticated language to describe their attractive qualities.

both present a captivating image

Highlights their ability to capture attention through their appearance.

both radiate charm

Suggests that their attractiveness extends beyond physical features to include a captivating personality.

FAQs

What does "both are handsome" mean?

It means that two subjects being referred to are considered physically attractive.

What can I say instead of "both are handsome"?

You can use alternatives like "both are attractive", "both are good-looking", or "both are appealing" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "both are handsome" to describe women?

While "handsome" is traditionally used to describe men, it's more appropriate to use terms like "both are beautiful" or "both are attractive" for women.

How to use "both are handsome" in a sentence?

You can use it like: "The actors were well-cast; "both are handsome", making the love story believable."