Words / A2

HANS-uh-m/ˈhænsəm/

Handsome means good-looking, usually of a man; also large and pleasing: a handsome man, a handsome building, a handsome amount. Beautiful is more often used of women and things. Handy means useful. Hansom is an old cab. Do not write handsome when you mean handy, or beautiful as if the words were always interchangeable.

Meaning

Good-looking, usually used about a man; also large and attractive.

Examples

• “The handsome actor signed photos outside the theatre.”
• “A handsome clock stood in the hotel lobby.”
• “The guide was a handsome man in a dark coat by the river.”

Good to know

a handsome man / building. Everyday for women/things: beautiful. Mix-up: handy.

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