this is handsome

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is handsome" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is visually appealing or attractive, often referring to a person or an object. Example: "After seeing the new car, I couldn't help but say, 'This is handsome!'"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

This is handsome, charming Connor, outstandingly played by Michael Fassbender, and he looks at Mia with frank appraisal.

The Guardian - Film

This is handsome place, compact but not claustrophobic, with sand-colored brick walls, a cavalcade of candles and lighting fixtures that are, in a word, phallic (a Freud-in-Vienna reference, maybe?).

The New York Times

PETTER "SOME POLYPHONY" This is handsome young techno guy Petter's stunning new single on Border Community, that excellent wonky electronics label run by James Holden.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"This Shakespeare is handsome and glamorous, so how does this change the way we think about him?" the handout said.

The New York Times

But this boy is handsome".

The New York Times

Unlike previous Chromebooks which ranged from plastic-y to downright janky, this thing is handsome.

TechCrunch

Unlike Nashville, this has been taken great care of over the years, but this new edition is handsome nonetheless, if not essential for someone with a recent version.

Huffington Post

In the season premiere a young man in a bar can't peg this stranger who is handsome and dapper but square, not hip.

The New York Times - Arts

The hardware is handsome.

The New York Times - Tech

Mr. Phillippe is handsome, and handsome is as handsome does.

The New York Times

"But handsome, yes, he is handsome".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider context and audience. While acceptable, "handsome" can occasionally sound dated. "This is good-looking" or "this is attractive" may be better choices for general use.

Common error

While not strictly incorrect, using "handsome" to describe traditionally feminine beauty can sound unusual. "Beautiful" or "attractive" are generally preferred in those cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is handsome" functions as an evaluative statement, expressing approval or admiration for the appearance or quality of something. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is handsome" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey approval of an object's or person's appearance. While applicable across various contexts, its usage can be slightly more formal. Ludwig AI indicates the expression is correct. When considering alternatives, options such as "this is attractive" or "this is good-looking" offer similar meanings with slight variations in tone and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is attractive

Replaces "handsome" with a more general term for being pleasing to the eye.

this is good-looking

A more casual synonym for "handsome", suitable for everyday conversation.

this is beautiful

Emphasizes a higher degree of aesthetic appeal, often used for more traditionally attractive subjects.

this is appealing

Focuses on the quality of being pleasing or desirable.

this is stylish

Highlights the fashion-forward or trendy aspect of the subject.

this is elegant

Suggests a refined and graceful beauty.

this is impressive

Shifts the focus to the noteworthy or remarkable quality of the subject.

this is exquisite

Implies a delicate and intricate beauty.

this is striking

Indicates a bold and attention-grabbing appearance.

this is magnificent

Highlights the grandeur and splendor of the subject.

FAQs

What does it mean to say "this is handsome"?

Saying "this is handsome" means that something has a pleasing appearance, often with connotations of dignity, proportion, and traditional attractiveness. It can apply to objects, buildings, or people.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "this is handsome"?

The phrase "this is handsome" is appropriate when describing something with a dignified, attractive appearance. While it can be applied to men, it is less commonly used for women. Instead, consider "this is beautiful" or "this is attractive".

What are some alternatives to saying "this is handsome"?

Alternatives to saying "this is handsome" include "this is attractive", "this is good-looking", "this is stylish", and "this is elegant". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "this is handsome" a formal or informal expression?

The expression "this is handsome" leans towards the slightly more formal side, though it's generally acceptable in neutral contexts. More informal options include "this is good-looking" or "this is nice".