it was handsome

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was handsome" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is visually appealing or attractive, often in reference to objects or animals rather than people. Example: "The old car, with its sleek lines and polished finish, it was handsome in a way that reminded me of classic designs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Monday's sole one-off came in "Lady's Choice," a Chopin waltz pas de deux choreographed by Brian Reeder and danced by Stella Abrera and Sascha Radetsky It was handsome phrase by phrase in its rich supply of ways of filling the music's 3/4 time but soon trite in its meandering assortment of ballet he-loves-her situations.

The New York Times - Arts

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

The New Yorker

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

Maybe I saw his face, maybe it was handsome enough, but what I noticed first, splayed on either side of the bag, were his shoes.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

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

The Guardian - Film

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

The New York Times - Books

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

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was handsome" when describing objects, buildings, or animals to convey a sense of dignified attractiveness. Consider alternatives like "it was beautiful" for broader appeal, or "it was elegant" for a more refined aesthetic.

Common error

Avoid using "it was handsome" to describe people, particularly men, in contemporary English. While traditionally "handsome" was used for men, today it may sound dated or awkward. Instead, use "he was handsome".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was handsome" functions as a subject complement, providing a description of the subject. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is valid, but can sound odd depending on the context and should be used only with objects, places, and animals.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it was handsome" is deemed grammatically correct by Ludwig, though its application is somewhat restricted. It serves to express a positive aesthetic judgment about objects, places, or animals rather than people. Its occurrence is relatively rare, primarily found within news and media contexts. Alternatives like "it was beautiful" or "it was elegant" offer broader applicability. When describing a man's appearance, "he was handsome" is the more appropriate and accepted construction. While considered correct by Ludwig, its limited usage suggests careful consideration should be given to the context to ensure appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was beautiful

Replaces "handsome" with a more general term for aesthetic appeal.

it was attractive

Similar to "beautiful" but can also suggest a captivating quality.

it was gorgeous

Emphasizes a higher degree of beauty and impressiveness.

it was visually appealing

Directly states that the thing in question pleases the eye.

it was striking

Highlights something that is visually impressive and easily noticed.

it was elegant

Suggests a refined and stylish appearance.

it was exquisite

Indicates a high level of craftsmanship and beauty.

it was well-designed

Focuses on the quality of the design rather than simply appearance.

it was finely crafted

Emphasizes the skill and care involved in its creation.

it was impressive

Highlights the sense of admiration and respect evoked.

FAQs

How can I use "it was handsome" in a sentence?

Use "it was handsome" to describe an object, place, or animal that possesses a dignified and pleasing appearance. For example, "The old car, with its polished chrome, it was handsome." Note that applying "handsome" to people may sound archaic.

What can I say instead of "it was handsome"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "it was beautiful", "it was attractive", or "it was elegant". Each alternative has a slightly different nuance.

Is it correct to say "it was handsome" about a person?

While grammatically correct, saying "it was handsome" to describe a person, especially a man, sounds unnatural in modern English. It's more appropriate to say "he was handsome" or describe a specific feature (e.g., "it was a handsome portrait").

What's the difference between "it was handsome" and "he was handsome"?

"It was handsome" typically refers to objects, places, or animals, emphasizing their dignified appearance. "He was handsome" is used to describe a man's attractive appearance. The pronoun choice is crucial for clarity and avoiding awkward phrasing.