suave

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "suave" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an adjective that means charming, confident, and elegant. Example: The new CEO's suave demeanor impressed everyone at the board meeting.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In last week's release Populaire, the suave Romain Duris character is asked to stop smoking in the office by the new secretary, played by Déborah François.

The Guardian - Film

His day ended in ignominy: it's not easy to act the suave toff with the second assistant director wedged between your legs, working the foot pedals with his hands.

The Guardian

Whether it's Nicole Kidman starring in a cinematic three-minute ad for Chanel, Justin Bieber and Lara Stone stripped down to their Calvin Klein underwear, or George Clooney looking suave sipping a Nespresso, there's no doubting the power of celebrity to catapult awareness of a brand.

The Guardian

He appeared well, even suave in comparison to his fellow defendants, who were clad in white prison tracksuits.

The Guardian

Their attack is, 'Look at Ed.' In brackets, 'What a plonker.' Look at our suave, cool, well-educated man, who can string a sentence and eat a sandwich.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Unshaven and brutally suave in a suit of ivory silk, Kekhman waxed optimistic about the company's future.

The Guardian

Only on closer inspection did we see, like the sci-fi classic V, that underneath the suave human exterior lurked a hideous reptilian monster.

The Guardian - Sport

A mate of mine once claimed he could drive a car in order to get a big break as a suave toff in a TV adaptation of some classic novel.

The Guardian

When we ordered it, the waiter a broad-necked older gentlemen with a suave manner, a head of wavy, brilliantined hair, and an aura of physical menace actually laughed.

The Economist

At another lunch with the same group on September 15th, the suave if somewhat bloodless president first made a lame joke about blood groups.

The Economist

The partnership between Bond and Felix Leiter, a CIA agent, reflected the way the British now liked to see things, the one suave, smart and endlessly resourceful, the other with a lot of money and a slightly plodding manner.Eisenhower won his election in America.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "suave" to describe someone whose charm and confidence are both noticeable and appreciated; avoid using it for boastful or arrogant characters.

Common error

While "suave" is versatile, it can sound overly formal or affected in casual settings. Opt for words like "smooth" or "cool" to maintain a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "suave" is as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe their characteristics. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes qualities of charm, confidence, and elegance. For instance, one might speak of a "suave businessman" or a "suave diplomat."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "suave" correctly describes someone who is charming, confident, and elegant. According to Ludwig AI, the term fits into a wide array of contexts but is most frequently encountered in news and media. While grammatically sound, it is essential to consider the tone of the writing; though versatile, "suave" may feel affected in very casual conversation. Synonyms like "debonair", "polished", or "urbane" offer similar shades of meaning. Ultimately, employing "suave" allows a writer to convey admiration or approval of someone's refined and sophisticated style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Debonair

Emphasizes charm and sophistication, often associated with men.

Sophisticated

Highlights refinement and knowledge of the world.

Charming

Focuses on the ability to please and attract others.

Cultured

Stresses the appreciation and understanding of arts and refined manners.

Polished

Suggests a refined and impeccable appearance and behavior.

Urbane

Implies sophistication and knowledge gained from wide experience in urban settings.

Smooth

Highlights a seamless and effortless style or manner.

Deft

Focuses on skill and grace in handling situations or interactions.

Elegant

Emphasizes refined grace and style in appearance and manner.

Refined

Indicates delicacy and good taste in behavior or style.

FAQs

How can I use "suave" in a sentence?

You can use "suave" to describe someone who is charming, confident, and elegant. For example, "He was a suave gentleman who effortlessly charmed everyone he met."

What's the difference between "suave" and "charming"?

"Suave" implies a sophisticated and polished charm, while "charming" is a broader term for being pleasing and attractive. "Suave" suggests a deliberate and cultivated effort in being impressive.

What are some synonyms for "suave"?

Some synonyms for "suave" include "debonair", "sophisticated", "urbane", and "polished". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe a woman as "suave"?

While "suave" is traditionally associated with men, it can be used to describe a woman who exhibits similar qualities of sophisticated charm and confidence, although it is less common.