look very handsome

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "look very handsome" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compliment someone's appearance, typically in a casual or informal context. Example: "He always manages to look very handsome in that tailored suit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

You look very handsome.

The New York Times

He look very handsome.

The Guardian - Travel

"You look very handsome tonight," Ms. Wintour told him.

The New York Times - Style

"The buildings, from the first 10 stories, look very handsome.

The New York Times

"You look very handsome today," she said, as if that were a rare event.

The New York Times

And there's a lovely drive from Simmons that is collected at long on and brings only a single, but did look very handsome indeed.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Mica looked very handsome.

The New Yorker

Boyle said neither he nor Dubinsky was pretending that either player looked very handsome.

The New York Times - Sports

It is a very greedy weed and only suited to rough places, where it looks very handsome in large clumps.

The Guardian

Last time she'd seen Momma with Daddy, Daddy had been in his soldier's dress uniform and had looked very handsome.

The New Yorker

And cover boy Adrian Grenier looks very handsome, even if he does, apparently, prefer flora to humans.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "look very handsome" when you want to directly compliment someone's appearance, especially focusing on their facial features or general attractiveness. This phrase is best suited for face-to-face interactions or informal written communications.

Common error

Avoid using "look very handsome" repeatedly in a single conversation or piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "appear quite dashing" or "seem very attractive" to maintain interest and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look very handsome" functions primarily as a compliment. It's used to express admiration for someone's appearance. This is supported by Ludwig, which indicates the phrase is correct and usable for complimenting someone's appearance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Wiki

14%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Science

14%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "look very handsome" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to compliment someone’s appearance. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English, highlighting its primary function as a direct compliment. While generally appropriate for informal settings, using synonyms like "appear quite dashing" or "seem very attractive" can prevent overuse and maintain interest. Its register ranges from informal to neutral, fitting various social contexts. Overall, it's a straightforward way to express admiration for someone’s physical attractiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

present a handsome figure

Similar to "look very handsome" but emphasizes posture and build.

look exceptionally good

A more generic compliment that emphasizes exceptional attractiveness.

look incredibly good

Stronger emphasis on the visual appeal.

look remarkably attractive

Like 'exceptionally good', it emphasizes the degree of attractiveness.

seem very attractive

A more general term, focusing on overall appeal instead of specifically 'handsome' features.

appear quite dashing

Emphasizes elegance and sophistication, rather than just general handsomeness.

cut a fine figure

Implies an impressive or striking appearance, going beyond simple handsomeness.

have a striking appearance

Focuses on the impressiveness and memorability of the look, not just attractiveness.

present a pleasing image

Highlights the favorable impression created, being more about the overall effect.

radiate charm and appeal

Goes beyond mere appearance and includes aspects of personality and magnetism.

FAQs

How can I use "look very handsome" in a sentence?

You can use "look very handsome" to directly compliment someone. For example, "You "look very handsome tonight"" or "He "looks very handsome in that suit"".

What can I say instead of "look very handsome"?

You can use alternatives such as "appear quite dashing", "seem very attractive", or "cut a fine figure" depending on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "look very handsome" in professional settings?

While generally acceptable, "look very handsome" is more suited for informal or personal contexts. In professional settings, consider more neutral compliments like "you "look very professional"" or focus on specific aspects like their attire.

What is the difference between "look very handsome" and "are very handsome"?

"Look very handsome" refers to someone's appearance at a specific moment or due to certain attire, while "are very handsome" describes their inherent physical attractiveness as a general characteristic. For example, "He "looks very handsome today"" implies it might be due to his outfit or grooming, while "He "is a very handsome man"" suggests consistent attractiveness.