somewhat masculine

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "somewhat masculine" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has qualities or characteristics typically associated with masculinity, but to a lesser degree. Example: "The design of the new product is somewhat masculine, appealing to a broader audience without being overly aggressive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

We are not a homogeneous group". Bennett and Heggessey point to their somewhat masculine route to the top.

The Guardian

MI5 described Perigoe as "a masterful and somewhat masculine woman" and a "typical arrogant Hun", the files show.

The Guardian

"So I placed him, in a dinner jacket...between an older, somewhat masculine woman and a well-known transvestite in transparent clothes from the Eldorado in Berlin.

The New Yorker

As Vita, Ms. Spaulding is chic and slim, with bobbed hair, a breezy confidence and a tailored, somewhat masculine fashion sense accented with pearls.

The New York Times

Often, while watching K play with his own ponytail as S towers over him, I have wondered, Isn't it odd that this somewhat effeminate man should be married to this somewhat masculine woman?

The New Yorker

If the whole thing sounds somewhat masculine, Ms. Bauer was surprised that many of the beer bath's customers are women, a number of whom also splurge on a brewski facial — a gooey mask made from ground hops, malt, honey and cream cheese.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

While my supervisors could tolerate a somewhat masculine-appearing black woman, they were not prepared to deal with my transition to being a black man.

HuffPost

It's pretty masculine.

Independent

It is slightly masculine.

The New Yorker

"My vibe is pretty masculine".

The New York Times

Or maybe it was the fruity-floral Lolita Lempicka, which Mr. Turin's colleague, Tania Sanchez, characterizes in their guide to the best 100 fragrances, "The Little Book of Perfumes," as "like cleavage set to trumpets," backed by a "somewhat louche and curiously masculine sweet woody section".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "somewhat masculine" to describe abstract concepts such as design aesthetics or emotional expressions, suggesting a measured approach to traditionally masculine characteristics.

Common error

Avoid using "somewhat masculine" when a stronger adjective like "masculine" or "very masculine" is more appropriate. "Somewhat" implies a degree of subtlety, so ensure it aligns with the intended emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "somewhat masculine" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying nouns to indicate a partial or moderate degree of masculinity. As Ludwig AI indicates, it describes something possessing characteristics typically associated with masculinity, but not entirely or overtly.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

14%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "somewhat masculine" is a grammatically sound and usable adjective phrase that indicates a moderate or partial degree of masculinity. As Ludwig AI notes, it's effective for nuanced descriptions, avoiding absolute categorizations. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase offers a softer, more qualified way to describe something as masculine, as opposed to using stronger adjectives. When using "somewhat masculine", it's important to consider the context to ensure that the degree of masculinity is accurately represented, and to avoid overstating or understating the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slightly masculine

Replaces "somewhat" with "slightly", indicating a minor degree of masculinity.

a bit masculine

Uses "a bit" instead of "somewhat" for a more informal tone, conveying a similar meaning.

partially masculine

Emphasizes that only a portion exhibits masculine traits.

kind of masculine

An informal substitute for "somewhat", implying an approximate assessment of masculinity.

moderately masculine

Indicates a medium level of masculine characteristics.

rather masculine

Uses "rather" as a slightly more formal alternative to "somewhat".

leaning towards masculine

Suggests a tendency toward masculinity without fully embodying it.

with masculine undertones

Highlights the subtle presence of masculine qualities.

displaying masculine aspects

Focuses on the exhibited features that suggest masculinity.

not entirely feminine

Approaches the concept from the opposite perspective, emphasizing the absence of complete femininity.

FAQs

How can I use "somewhat masculine" in a sentence?

You can use "somewhat masculine" to describe something that has masculine qualities to a certain extent. For example, "Her style was "somewhat masculine", with tailored suits and a confident demeanor".

What are some alternatives to saying "somewhat masculine"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "slightly masculine", "a bit masculine", or "partially masculine" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "somewhat masculine" to describe a woman?

Yes, it can be appropriate to use "somewhat masculine" to describe a woman if you are referring to her style, demeanor, or certain traits that are traditionally associated with masculinity. However, consider the context and potential sensitivities.

What's the difference between "somewhat masculine" and "androgynous"?

"Somewhat masculine" indicates a partial leaning towards masculine traits, while "androgynous" implies a blending of both masculine and feminine characteristics, often to the point where it's difficult to distinguish between the two.