handsome smiles

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "handsome smiles" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe attractive or charming smiles, often in a complimentary context. Example: "The children greeted us with handsome smiles, brightening our day instantly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

David Beckham, Prince William and Prince Harry were all handsome smiles at a reception Saturday to back England's bid to host the 2018 World Cup.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

A handsome, smiling couple in late middle age answered.

The New Yorker

He barely resembles the handsome, smiling boy depicted in the 1942 programs.

The New York Times - Sports

"Regardless of that handsome smile he had, he was a tough son of a gun.

The New York Times - Sports

"Look at him," she says, of a handsome, smiling face on her phone.

The Guardian - Books

Our dear friend, we will miss you and your handsome smiling face.

The New York Times

Outside Washington, billboards show handsome, smiling men announcing "Ex-gays prove that change is possible".

The Guardian

Your loving family has missed your love and devotion--your handsome smiling face along with your sense of humor.

The New York Times

There followed photographs of Ettinger in uniform (handsome, smiling, promising) and, on the next pages, in casts, in wheelchairs, on crutches — a young man cut down.

The New Yorker

In "Stop-Loss," he squares his jaw, mostly hides his handsome smile, and throws his body into everything, as if he felt invulnerable.

The New Yorker

Can I really be with a man who doesn't give me a gift on Arbor Day? " 'Une partie de lawn-tennis,' Veslovsky proposed, with his handsome smile.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "handsome smiles" to specifically describe smiles that are attractive in a masculine way, especially when referring to men. Be mindful of the context and avoid using it in situations where 'handsome' would be inappropriate or gender-biased.

Common error

Avoid using "handsome smiles" in very casual or informal settings, as it can sound overly formal or affected. In everyday conversation, simpler adjectives like 'nice' or 'bright' may be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "handsome smiles" functions as a descriptive noun phrase. The adjective 'handsome' modifies the noun 'smiles', indicating the quality of the smiles being attractive or pleasing to the eye. Ludwig AI shows this phrase used to describe smiles considered visually appealing.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "handsome smiles" is a grammatically sound adjective + noun phrase used to describe attractive smiles, primarily in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, though examples are infrequent, indicating a relatively rare expression. It's crucial to consider gender associations and context when using "handsome smiles", favoring it for men and more formal settings. Alternatives like "charming smile" or "attractive smile" offer similar connotations and broader applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beautiful smile

A straightforward alternative that emphasizes the aesthetic quality of the smile.

charming smile

Highlights the smile's ability to delight or fascinate.

pleasing smile

Uses 'pleasing' instead of 'handsome' to focus on the agreeable quality of the smile.

beaming smile

Implies a broad, joyful, and expressive smile.

engaging smile

Indicates the smile's ability to draw others in and create connection.

attractive grin

Replaces 'smiles' with 'grin', implying a broader, more enthusiastic expression.

radiant smile

Focuses on the brightness and positivity conveyed by the smile.

captivating smile

Stresses the smile's ability to hold attention and enchant.

alluring smile

Emphasizes the captivating nature of the smile, rather than general attractiveness.

winsome smile

Suggests the smile is particularly engaging and pleasant.

FAQs

How can I describe a smile instead of using "handsome smiles"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "charming smile", "attractive smile", or "pleasing smile".

Is "handsome smiles" appropriate for describing both men and women?

"Handsome" is traditionally used to describe men. For women, you might prefer "beautiful smiles" or "radiant smile".

What does "handsome smiles" imply?

It suggests that the smiles are not only attractive but also possess a certain charm and appeal, often associated with a well-groomed or refined appearance. It focuses more on the visual attractiveness of the smile.

When is it best to use "handsome smiles" in writing?

It's suitable for formal writing, descriptions in literature, or contexts where you want to emphasize the striking and pleasing nature of a smile. Be mindful of the gender associations of the word "handsome".