well-dressed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "well-dressed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is dressed in a stylish or elegant manner. Example: "At the gala, everyone was well-dressed, showcasing their finest attire."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The well-dressed dad's secret?

The New York Times

THE CROWD Well-dressed adults.

The New York Times

Well-dressed, though.

The New York Times

A very well-dressed art student.

The New York Times

THE CROWD Mostly well-dressed adults.

The New York Times

Jake is thickset, short, and well-dressed.

The New Yorker

Well-dressed friends posing for wedding pictures.

The New York Times - Travel

The women are well-dressed.

The Guardian

Two well-dressed women queue behind me.

The Guardian

"But it's very well-dressed ballet".

The Guardian - Film

We're three well-dressed gents larking about.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "well-dressed", be specific about the elements of their attire that contribute to this impression. Instead of just saying someone is "well-dressed", mention specific details like the tailoring of their suit or the coordination of colors and accessories.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that someone is "well-dressed" without providing supporting details. The phrase can become cliché if not accompanied by specific observations about the person's clothing, style, and overall presentation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "well-dressed" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying a noun (usually a person) to describe their attire. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes someone who dresses attractively and fashionably. Examples from Ludwig showcase its use in describing crowds, individuals, and even inanimate objects like eggs, highlighting its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "well-dressed" is a common and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe someone who wears attractive and fashionable clothing. Ludwig AI confirms this and the provided examples from a variety of reputable sources, like The New York Times and The Guardian, indicate its wide applicability across different contexts. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, being specific with descriptive details enhances its impact. Alternatives such as "smartly attired", "fashionably dressed", and "impeccably dressed" can offer more nuanced ways to convey a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Impeccably dressed

Highlights flawlessness and attention to detail in one's attire.

Elegantly attired

Highlights gracefulness and sophistication in clothing.

Smartly attired

Focuses on the neatness and appropriateness of the clothing.

Dapperly dressed

Suggests a sharp and stylish appearance, often in a more classic or traditional style.

Sharp-dressed

Emphasizes a stylish and put-together appearance.

Fashionably dressed

Emphasizes being up-to-date with current fashion trends.

Stylishly clothed

Similar to fashionably dressed, but with a broader sense of style.

Neatly dressed

Implies tidiness and orderliness in appearance.

Attired in finery

Suggests wearing elaborate or luxurious clothing.

Well-groomed

Focuses on overall appearance, including hair and personal hygiene, not just clothing.

FAQs

What does "well-dressed" mean?

The phrase "well-dressed" describes someone who wears attractive, fashionable, and appropriate clothing. It implies attention to detail and a sense of style.

What can I say instead of "well-dressed"?

Alternatives include "smartly attired", "fashionably dressed", or "impeccably dressed", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "well-dressed" or "nicely dressed"?

"Well-dressed" often implies a higher level of style and attention to detail than "nicely dressed". The best choice depends on the context and the specific impression you want to create.

How to use "well-dressed" in a sentence?

Example: "The guest of honor was "elegantly attired" and certainly the most "well-dressed" person at the event."