Yes, you can use the adjective "handsome" for women. While it's more traditionally used to describe men, applying it to a woman is acceptable and conveys a specific meaning.
Understanding "Handsome"
The word "handsome" when used to describe a woman doesn't imply masculinity. Instead, it suggests a particular kind of attractiveness characterized by:
- Strong Features: A woman described as handsome often possesses well-defined, striking features rather than delicate ones.
- Good Health: It implies a sense of vitality and robustness.
- General Attractiveness: Fundamentally, it signifies that she is very good-looking.
Using "Handsome" for Women
While "beautiful," "pretty," or "gorgeous" are more common, using "handsome" can add a unique dimension to your description:
- Emphasize Strength: It highlights a woman's strength and presence.
- A Different Type of Beauty: It suggests a more striking or commanding beauty compared to traditionally feminine descriptions.
- Context Matters: The appropriateness depends on the specific context and relationship with the person. Consider if the use of "handsome" will be interpreted as a compliment.
Example
- "She has a really handsome face." This might be used to describe a woman with strong, well-defined features and a confident demeanor.
Here is a summary table to further illustrate the nuances:
| Adjective | Typically Used For | Connotation |
|---|---|---|
| Beautiful | Women | Delicate, graceful attractiveness |
| Pretty | Women | Attractive, pleasing to the eye |
| Gorgeous | Women | Strikingly beautiful, captivating |
| Handsome | Men (Commonly) or Women (Sometimes) | Strong features, striking, healthy, and good-looking |
In conclusion, according to the provided reference, "Yes, you can use the adjective handsome for women. While handsome is more often used for men, women can also be called handsome. When a woman is described as handsome, it suggests that she is very good-looking, and also healthy and strong."
