it is handsome

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is handsome" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is visually appealing or attractive, typically referring to objects or animals rather than people. Example: "The new sports car is sleek and stylish; it is handsome in every way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Like all good architecture, it is handsome.

The New York Times - Arts

It is handsome, grand and, in certain respects, thoroughly familiar.

The New York Times - Arts

The interior is as comfortable as it is handsome.

The New York Times

It is handsome, colorful, plainly written if not elegant.

The New York Times - Books

The resulting car can't break-dance like the adorable robot, but it is handsome and entertaining.

The New York Times

It is handsome, if slightly unspecific: what might happen if West Elm opened a restaurant.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

It's handsome, large-scale escapist fare — and has as its costar the formidable, versatile Kristin Scott Thomas.

Los Angeles Times

Nonetheless, it was handsome to behold, at times magnificently chilling.

The New Yorker

It's handsome, agreeably earnest and ephemeral as a daydream.

The Guardian - Film

It was handsome, easy to use, and helped warm the house.

The New Yorker

San Simeon was a vanity, if you will, but it was handsome and a delight -- it still is.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is handsome" to describe inanimate objects, buildings, or animals. While technically acceptable for people, it is less common and may sound dated or overly formal. For people consider using "he is handsome" or "she is handsome".

Common error

While "handsome" can describe people, especially men, overuse may make your writing sound old-fashioned. In contemporary usage, consider using alternatives like "attractive", "good-looking", or more specific descriptors to better convey the person's appeal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is handsome" functions as a descriptive statement, attributing a quality of pleasing appearance, often with connotations of dignity and balance, to a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Examples show it describing architecture, cars and objects.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

92%

Academia

4%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is handsome" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to describe something with a pleasing and dignified appearance. Ludwig AI confirms this, offering a range of examples from reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and subject. It's most suitable for objects, buildings, or animals, and its usage with people, particularly women, can sound old-fashioned. Consider more contemporary alternatives like "it is attractive" or "it is good-looking" to ensure your writing resonates with modern audiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is attractive

Replaces "handsome" with a more general term for visual appeal, suitable for a wider range of subjects.

it is good-looking

Similar to "attractive" but slightly more informal, implying a pleasing appearance.

it is beautiful

Emphasizes a higher degree of aesthetic appeal, suggesting a more profound or striking quality.

it is striking

Highlights the quality of being impressive or noticeable, often due to its visual characteristics.

it is visually appealing

Directly addresses the visual aspect, suitable when emphasizing the aesthetic impact.

it is elegant

Suggests a refined and graceful appearance, often implying sophistication and style.

it is well-designed

Focuses on the quality of the design rather than just overall appearance, implying intentional aesthetic choices.

it is impressive

Conveys a sense of admiration and respect, often due to its grand or remarkable appearance.

it is magnificent

Implies grandeur and splendor, suitable for describing something awe-inspiring in its appearance.

it is finely crafted

Highlights the quality of workmanship and attention to detail in creating its aesthetic appeal.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "it is handsome"?

"It is handsome" is best used to describe objects, buildings, or animals that possess a pleasing and dignified appearance. While grammatically correct for people, it's less common in modern usage and can sound formal or archaic.

What are some alternatives to "it is handsome"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "it is attractive", "it is good-looking", "it is elegant", or "it is visually appealing".

Is "it is handsome" suitable for describing a woman?

While technically grammatically correct, using "it is handsome" to describe a woman is uncommon and can sound odd. It's better to use "she is beautiful", "she is attractive", or other more appropriate descriptors.

Does "it is handsome" have a different connotation than "it is beautiful"?

Yes, "it is handsome" often implies a sense of dignity, balance, and robust appeal, while "it is beautiful" often suggests a more delicate, graceful, or striking aesthetic quality. The best choice depends on the specific subject and the intended impression.