Is 'handsome' a compliment when used to describe a woman?
16 Answers to "Is 'handsome' a compliment when used to describe a woman?"
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If someone uses handsome to compliment a female, I would think this woman have some kind of masculine look sadly.
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I think if she is of a certain age, and very elegant, yes.
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Like Beatrice Arthur, she's handsome.Like (1)
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Yeah, like that. Or Olympia dukakis
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Only if she has a mustache &/or beard...
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A well-trimmed mustache &/or beard.
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Lol more of an insult (:
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I have heard it before. I can't say I would appreciate being called that though!
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Well, it's obviously a clear breach of conservative codes of designation:)
It's a word I use often for very striking middle-aged or elderly women. Google some pics of Georgia O'Keefe or the Mitford sisters or, today, Christine Lagarde. These very imposing women might not be described as conventional beauties and 'handsome' seems exactly the right compliment to me.Like (1)
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Yes I’ve heard beautiful women described as handsome. Look at this definition I found. Says nothing about gender. But you can safely assume that if she's of only average literacy then she will have only associated this word with men. So use at your own discretion.
hand·some [hánssəm]
adj
1. good-looking: with good-looking facial features or a pleasing general appearance
2. substantial: pleasingly large in extent or size
a handsome victory
earning a handsome salary
3. impressive: well-made or skillfully executed
a handsome piece of jewelryLike (1)
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in the right light with the right intentions, I'd say yes.
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Yes, although it is rather dated and old-fashioned now.
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Handsome%20WomanLike (1)
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It can be used but I think there are other words that would be more appreciated. Handsome in reference to a woman usually means stately or someone who has a strong business demeanor along with striking good looks. It isn't bad but it isn't the nicest thing that can be said. I would rather be called handsome than pretty. Pretty is something that I think belongs to a little girl.
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Wow, seriously? hahaha
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It is a bit archaic to speak of a woman as handsome but years ago it actually wasn't an insult.
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Traditionally, yes. I suppose it depends on who is saying it.
And whether the person actually appreciates what it means.Like (1)
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Yes it is
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nice personality?... is saying whooooah she fat and ugly :)
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Best Answer (Chosen By Asker):
Posted by drakesprig 1 Jul 21st, 2012 at 6:33PM
Oh, Absolutely! I have used this term in a complimentary form many times. There are so many ways to describe the beauty of a person...and most assuredly, for the female gender. I believe that 'handsome' is a word that can be used in many ways; for example a 'handsome' woman sounds sophisticated and proper, while a 'handsome' girl sounds awkward and out-of-place.riptions. Handsome, definetly can be used for an adjective relating to one's beauty.
We are so blessed with our language...we have so many words with the same general meaning, but exemplify our feelings and desc
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