handsome retainer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "handsome retainer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an attractive or appealing servant or assistant, often in a historical or fantasy context. Example: "The noblewoman was accompanied by a handsome retainer, who stood by her side with a loyal demeanor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

And he became so highly thought of at the New Yorker that it paid him a handsome retainer just for first sight of any new work.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's worth all your big retainers.

The Guardian - Sport

The lights and darks represented by Ariel and Caliban take more human form in the good-hearted retainer Gonzalo (Noble Shropshire), the handsome young prince Ferdinand William Patrick Rileyy), the grieving King of Naples (Christopher Randolph), the usurping Antonio (Jonathan Lincoln Fried) and the treacherous Sebastian (David Barlow).

The New York Times

Retainer required.

Cornell University

Hi, Handsome!

The New York Times

"Handsome is as handsome does".

The New York Times

How handsome?

The New York Times

Adorable, handsome.

The New Yorker

"Very handsome".

The New York Times

"He's not on retainer.

The New York Times

The old Retainer polished brass.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "handsome retainer", consider the context. It is most appropriate in historical fiction, fantasy, or situations where the physical appearance of a servant or employee is relevant to the narrative.

Common error

Avoid using "handsome retainer" in modern professional settings where emphasizing physical appearance is irrelevant or inappropriate. Focus on skills and qualifications instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "handsome retainer" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "handsome" modifies the noun "retainer". Ludwig confirms that this is a valid and usable phrase, although relatively rare.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "handsome retainer" is a grammatically correct and understandable phrase, though its usage is rare. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes an attractive servant or assistant, primarily within contexts like historical fiction or fantasy. When considering alternatives, options such as "attractive aide" or "appealing assistant" may offer similar meanings with slight shifts in emphasis. However, in modern professional settings, focusing on skills and qualifications is generally more appropriate than emphasizing physical appearance. In conclusion, while "handsome retainer" is valid, its contextual relevance should be carefully considered.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attractive aide

Focuses on the visual appeal of the assistant.

appealing assistant

Highlights the pleasant nature of the assistant.

good-looking attendant

Emphasizes the visual attractiveness of the attendant.

well-favored servant

Uses more formal language to describe an attractive servant.

striking employee

Highlights the visual impact of the employee.

prepossessing helper

Focuses on the favorable impression created by the helper.

desirable acquisition

Shifts the focus to the attractiveness of gaining or employing someone.

advantageous deal

Focuses on the beneficial aspects of a retainer agreement, downplaying appearance.

lucrative contract

Highlights the financial benefits of a retainer agreement.

profitable association

Emphasizes the mutual benefits of a retainer relationship.

FAQs

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

You might use "handsome retainer" in historical or fantasy writing to describe an attractive servant or assistant. For example: "The noblewoman was always accompanied by her handsome retainer".

What are some alternatives to "handsome retainer"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "attractive aide", "appealing assistant", or "good-looking attendant".

Is it appropriate to use "handsome retainer" in a business context?

Generally, no. The phrase "handsome retainer" is more suited to fictional or historical contexts. In business, it's more appropriate to focus on skills and qualifications rather than physical appearance.

What does "handsome" mean in "handsome retainer"?

In this context, "handsome" refers to physical attractiveness and good looks. It suggests that the retainer is visually appealing.