handsomer

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the phrase "handsomer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the attractiveness of two or more males, as it is the comparative form of "handsome." Example: "In the contest of who is the handsomer brother, Jake always wins."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Unusually young to get married, it quickly becomes clear that handsomer, smarter and more self-confident than everyone else around them, they are made for one another and already destined to be among life's winners.

The Economist

Cain for president.9 55: At a diner here in Iowa City, I said much to my mortification right in front of Anita Perry that Mitt Romney is handsomer in person than Perry.9 55: He said he'd "bring" the sense of humour.

The Economist

When his second wife walked out on him in 1968 he couldn't help remarking, bitterly, that she had left him for someone handsomer and taller.Smallness shaped Little Norm, but poverty taught him something, too.

The Economist

Their theatres, sometimes handsomer and better equipped than professional houses, presented plays of all sorts to communities often beyond the reach of regional or touring companies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If its technologies are used to shape the genetic endowment of children according to the desires — and financial means — of their parents, the outcome could be a "GenRich" class of people who are smarter, healthier, and handsomer than the underclass of "Naturals".

The New Yorker

He was handsomer than any leading man; he was joyful and athletic in physical movement; and, by all accounts, he had both a love of acting and a considerable talent for it.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Back then, it was still widely supposed that every girl's dream was to marry a handsome prince and live happily ever after in a Tyrolean castle attended upon by mice and dressed each morning by bluebirds.

The Guardian - Film

What was it that persuaded him to leave his handsome home in Barcelona, where he has lived and prospered in business since retiring as a player, to risk all in Lanarkshire?

The Guardian - Sport

He is handsome, relaxed, basking in the moment.

The Guardian - Film

In probing the pressures of expectation and prevailing scepticism in the British arts scene, Leigh has made a film about as self-reflective (and self-reflexive) as handsome heritage cinema can be.

The Guardian - Film

And she also came across David Cameron at a "gorgeous Gloucestershire party", writing that "in the flesh I found him amazingly attractive – tall, dark and definitely handsome".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "handsomer" when directly comparing the physical appearance of two individuals, ensuring the context involves a subjective assessment of attractiveness.

Common error

Avoid using "handsomer" in highly formal or professional writing; opt for "more handsome" for a slightly more elevated tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "handsomer" is as a comparative adjective. It modifies a noun (usually a person) to indicate that they possess a greater degree of handsomeness than another. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "handsomer" functions as a comparative adjective used to describe a higher degree of physical attractiveness in males. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and high frequency. While generally considered grammatically correct, it is more common in neutral to informal contexts, with more formal settings sometimes favoring the phrase "more handsome". Top sources like the New York Times and the New Yorker frequently employ this word, solidifying its place in modern English usage. Related phrases include "better looking" and "finer looking", each offering slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more handsome

This is the direct analytical comparative form, using "more" instead of the synthetic "-er" suffix.

better-looking

This uses a different adjective to convey a similar meaning of improved appearance.

finer-looking

Emphasizes a refined or elegant quality in appearance, slightly more formal.

of more appealing appearance

This is a longer, more descriptive way of saying someone's looks are better.

more attractive

A broader term than "handsome", suitable for any gender and emphasizing general appeal.

more prepossessing

Suggests that the person makes a good first impression, implying increased charm.

more beautiful

While typically used for women, can be used for men to express a heightened level of aesthetic appeal.

with improved looks

Focuses on the improvement in appearance, rather than directly comparing to someone else.

with greater appeal

Broader in scope, suggesting an increase in overall attractiveness and charm, not just physical appearance.

more dashing

Conveys a sense of boldness and flair in addition to good looks.

FAQs

How do I use "handsomer" in a sentence?

"Handsomer" is used to compare the appearance of two or more males. For example: "He became "handsomer" as he aged".

Is "handsomer" grammatically correct?

Yes, "handsomer" is the comparative form of "handsome" and is grammatically correct. You can also use "more handsome".

What are some alternatives to using the word "handsomer"?

Alternatives to "handsomer" include "better looking", "more attractive", or "finer looking".

When should I use "handsomer" vs "more handsome"?

"Handsomer" is a shorter, more direct comparative. "More handsome" is a slightly more formal and analytical comparative construction.