less handsome

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less handsome" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare the attractiveness of two or more individuals, indicating that one is not as handsome as another. Example: "While both brothers are attractive, Jake is less handsome than his twin, Tom."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Arts

Film

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Also, made Jon Hamm look a little bit less handsome than usual.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

His face was less handsome, but maybe better, and Con was sorry she'd spoken.

The New Yorker

Though less handsome, perhaps, than other plums, they are the ones most often used in cooking.

The New York Times

No less handsome is the chestnut-leaved R. aesculifolia, whose foliage closely resembles the tree that gives it its name.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Experienced deer hunters trained by their fathers, Mr. Watson and Mr. Kennedy were out for the challenge and modest profit of stalking this other, less handsome prey.

The New York Times - Sports

People will always say, 'Him, he's less handsome'; 'Him, he's too black'; 'He is too white'... Someone will always be saying, 'You are too' [this or that]..

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Stare and smile, and walk very close to his less-rich, less-handsome targets.

The Washington Post

And suppose that this knowledge leads them to use illegal performance-enhancing drugs at a higher rate than their less-handsome competitors.

The Economist

And it includes the capacity to quickly recruit qualified personnel willing to go to these difficult and dangerous places on less than handsome salaries.

The Guardian

"The Eastwind is something less than handsome, being a squat craft with a foreshortened bow, a bulging middle, and a deck crowded with cranes, guns, boats, sailors, and an Airedale named Skunk," Gardner Botsford and John Mcarten wrote in a Comment.

The New Yorker

Less immediately handsome (he lacks his brother's Dan Dare-like jaw-line, and his blue eyes seem more sleepy), he plied his trade in little-seen arthouse movies like Gerry and Lonesome Jim.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "less handsome", consider providing specific details about their appearance or personality to offer a more nuanced portrayal and avoid superficial judgments.

Common error

Avoid reducing a character or subject solely to their physical attributes. While stating someone is "less handsome" can be descriptive, ensure you balance it with insights into their personality, skills, or other qualities to create a well-rounded depiction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less handsome" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun, indicating that the noun possesses a lesser degree of handsomeness compared to something else. As Ludwig AI's "aiResponseStatus" confirms, the phrase is both grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Books

12%

Arts

12%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less handsome" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adjective phrase that serves to compare the relative degree of attractiveness between subjects. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English. While generally neutral in tone, its use should be balanced with sensitivity and consideration of individual qualities beyond mere physical appearance. The phrase appears most frequently in the News & Media context, indicating its utility in descriptive writing across various subjects. When employing "less handsome", consider alternatives such as "not as attractive" or "plain-looking" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as attractive

Replaces "handsome" with the more general term "attractive" and uses "not as" for comparison.

not particularly handsome

Adds emphasis to the lack of handsomeness.

not so good-looking

Uses "good-looking" as a synonym for "handsome" and "not so" for a slightly less formal tone.

less attractive

A direct synonym, replacing "handsome" with "attractive"

not the best looking

A more casual way of expressing that someone is less handsome.

plain-looking

Indicates a lack of striking features or attractiveness.

more ordinary-looking

Contrasts with extraordinary attractiveness.

homely

Suggests a simple or unrefined appearance.

not blessed with good looks

Highlights the absence of conventionally attractive features.

of lesser beauty

Employs a more formal and literary tone.

FAQs

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

"Less handsome" is used to compare the attractiveness of two or more people or things. For example, "While the newer model boasts advanced features, it's arguably "less handsome" than its predecessor."

What's a more polite way to say "less handsome"?

Instead of saying "less handsome", you could use phrases like "less conventionally attractive", "plain-looking", or describe their appearance with more specific, neutral details.

What's the difference between "less handsome" and "ugly"?

"Less handsome" suggests a mild deficiency in conventional attractiveness, while "ugly" implies a more severe unattractiveness. "Less handsome" is a gentler way to describe someone who might not be traditionally good-looking, whereas "ugly" is generally considered offensive.

Which is correct, "less handsome" or "not as handsome"?

Both "less handsome" and "not as handsome" are grammatically correct and have the same meaning. The choice depends on the desired tone and style.