Words of Positivity
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Handsome

adj.joyful, capablewarm

Meaning 1

Attractive in a strong, balanced, or dignified way.

Reach for it when complimenting a person's appearance or an object's well-proportioned design

The cedar frame makes a handsome border for the old map.

Choose between these

4
  • everyday

    attractive

    broad visual appeal is enough without implying a particular style

    not when Attractive lacks the sturdy dignity that handsome often adds.

  • warm

    striking

    appearance commands immediate notice

    not when Striking can be unusual or dramatic without being conventionally handsome.

  • formal

    distinguished

    mature dignity and character shape the appeal

    not when Distinguished may praise bearing or reputation more than physical looks.

  • literary

    fine-looking

    you want an approving, slightly traditional compliment

    not when The phrase feels dated in modern professional descriptions.

Meaning 2

Impressively generous or substantial in size or amount.

Reach for it when praising a contribution, margin, or reward as notably large

Ticket sales produced a handsome contribution to the repair fund.

Choose between these

3
  • everyday

    sizable

    the only claim is that the amount is fairly large

    not when Sizable only marks scale; the amount could still be unwelcome or unimpressive.

  • warm

    generous

    the amount reflects openhanded giving

    not when Generous describes intent and proportion, while handsome only marks notable size.

  • professional

    substantial

    material size or value should sound objective

    not when Substantial is sober and loses the pleased approval carried by handsome.

Said against

4
  • unattractive
  • plain
  • meager
  • paltry

It naturally appears in

3
  • handsome features

    His handsome features were softened by an easy smile.

  • handsome building

    The handsome building anchors the north side of the square.

  • handsome sum

    Alumni raised a handsome sum for new music rooms.

The word family

1

Where this comes from

The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.