the handsomer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the handsomer" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as a comparative form of the adjective "handsome" when comparing two males. Example: "Between the two brothers, I think Mark is the handsomer one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The handsomer, more free-spirited and playful Jagger is a shameless coquette who pressures Yossi to consider leaving the army and living with him.

The New York Times

The handsomer they are, the more roles they can play; Olivier can be anything, but who would want to see Ralph Richardson, great as he is, play Antony?

The New Yorker

At one point near the end of the night, a musician called Computer at Sea (and introduced as "the handsomer Dan Deacon," though that would only barely approximate his sound), began his set by excitedly rallying the audience the only way that would have made sense: inviting them up to play his instruments.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"The handsome prince is evil.

The New Yorker

The Handsome Family are ditch people.

The New Yorker

What about the handsome bright yellow Wm.

The New York Times

He was the handsomest man in New York.

The New Yorker

Amy Helm and the Handsome Strangers, blues.

The New York Times

(He also designed the handsome costumes).

The New York Times - Arts

(Oana Botez-Ban designed the handsome costumes).

The New York Times

Central was the handsome classes.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the handsomer" when directly comparing two individuals and emphasizing their superior attractiveness. Ensure the context makes the comparison clear.

Common error

Avoid using "the handsomer" when not explicitly comparing two entities. In general descriptions, use "handsome" or "very handsome" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the handsomer" functions as a comparative adjective, specifically highlighting a greater degree of attractiveness between two entities. As Ludwig AI explains, it's used to directly compare and emphasize superior attractiveness. The provided examples showcase this function in real-world contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the handsomer" is a comparative adjective phrase used to indicate a higher degree of attractiveness between two subjects. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical structure is correct, although its frequency is rare. Primarily found in News & Media, this phrase serves to express subjective judgments about appearance. Remember to use it when explicitly comparing two entities, and consider alternatives like "the more handsome" or "the better-looking" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the more handsome

Emphasizes the degree of handsomeness rather than directly using the comparative form of the adjective.

the handsomest of the pair

Emphasizes that this person is the most attractive compared to the pair.

the better-looking

A more general term for attractiveness, not limited to masculine contexts.

the more attractive

A broader term encompassing various types of appeal, not strictly physical.

the fairer of the two

Implies a subjective judgment of beauty or comeliness.

the one with more allure

Highlights the captivating quality or charm of the person's appearance.

the more comely

A somewhat archaic term for attractive, often implying a wholesome or pleasing appearance.

the finer-looking

Focuses on the quality and refinement of appearance.

the most prepossessing

Suggests that the person makes a favorable first impression due to their looks.

the bonnier

A Scottish term for handsome or attractive, typically used in specific regional contexts.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "the handsomer"?

Use "the handsomer" when comparing the attractiveness of two people or things. For instance, "He was "the handsomer of the two" brothers".

What are some alternatives to saying "the handsomer"?

Alternatives include "the more handsome" or "the better-looking". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "the handsomer" formal or informal?

"The handsomer" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal writing might favor "the more handsome".

Can "the handsomer" be used for objects or only for people?

While primarily used to describe people, "the handsomer" could theoretically apply to objects if you're comparing their aesthetic appeal. However, it's more common to use terms like "the more attractive" or "the better-looking" in such cases.