Learning how to say “handsome” in German goes beyond a simple vocabulary lesson. It delves into the nuances of the language, exploring different words that convey varying degrees of attractiveness and considering the context in which they are used.
This article is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of this topic, covering various German words for “handsome,” their specific meanings, and practical usage. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to accurately and confidently describe someone’s appearance in German.
Understanding how to express attractiveness also provides insights into cultural values and perceptions of beauty. By exploring the different ways to say “handsome,” we gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of the German language and its cultural context.
This guide is perfect for language learners, travelers, and anyone interested in expanding their German vocabulary and cultural awareness.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of “Handsome” in German
- Structural Breakdown of Key Terms
- Types and Categories of “Handsome” in German
- Examples: Using “Handsome” in German Sentences
- Usage Rules and Grammatical Considerations
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics: Nuances and Regional Variations
- FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Definition of “Handsome” in German
The English word “handsome” encompasses a range of meanings related to attractiveness, particularly in men. In German, there isn’t a single, direct equivalent.
Instead, several words can be used to convey different aspects of “handsome,” depending on the specific nuance you want to express. These words range from general attractiveness to specific features like good looks, charm, or even strength and manliness.
Understanding these subtle differences is key to accurately describing someone’s appearance and making your German sound more natural.
Classifying these terms helps to understand their usage. Some terms, like attraktiv and gutaussehend, are general and can be applied broadly. Others, such as hübsch, often imply a softer, more gentle kind of attractiveness. Schön, while meaning “beautiful,” can sometimes be used for men, especially in a poetic or expressive context. The function of these words is primarily descriptive, but they can also carry emotional weight, influencing how the listener perceives the subject being described. The context, including social setting and relationship between speakers, will also affect the appropriate choice of word.
Structural Breakdown of Key Terms
Let’s take a closer look at the structural components of some of the key German words for “handsome”:
- Attraktiv: This word is directly derived from the Latin “attractivus” and is structurally similar to its English counterpart “attractive.” It is an adjective and doesn’t have any separable prefixes or suffixes that significantly alter its meaning.
- Gutaussehend: This is a compound word consisting of “gut” (good) and “aussehend” (looking). “Aussehen” is a verb meaning “to look” or “to appear.” Therefore, gutaussehend literally translates to “good-looking.” It is an adjective formed by combining an adverb and a participle.
- Hübsch: This word’s etymology is less transparent, but it generally means “pretty” or “nice-looking.” It is a standalone adjective and doesn’t break down into easily identifiable components.
- Schön: This word translates directly to “beautiful”. A standalone adjective.
- Ansehnlich: This word consists of “an” (on/at) and “sehnlich” (desirable/longing). It has a literal meaning of “worth looking at” implying a presentable or decent appearance.
- Männlich: This word means “manly” or “masculine.” It is derived from “Mann” (man) and the suffix “-lich” which is similar to “-ly” in English, indicating a quality or characteristic.
Understanding the structure of these words can help you remember their meanings and use them correctly in sentences. For example, recognizing that gutaussehend is a compound word can make its meaning more intuitive.
Types and Categories of “Handsome” in German
Here’s a breakdown of the different words you can use to say “handsome” in German, categorized by their specific nuances:
Attraktiv (Attractive)
Attraktiv is a general term for “attractive.” It’s a good starting point and can be used in many contexts. It suggests a general appeal and can apply to both men and women, as well as objects or places.
Gutaussehend (Good-looking)
Gutaussehend is a more direct translation of “good-looking.” It focuses specifically on physical appearance. This term is generally used for people.
Hübsch (Pretty/Nice-looking)
Hübsch is often translated as “pretty” or “nice-looking.” While it can be used for men, it often implies a softer, more delicate kind of attractiveness. It is more commonly used for women or children. When used for men, it can sometimes have a slightly ironic or playful connotation.
Schön (Beautiful)
Schön generally means “beautiful.” While primarily used for women, it can describe men in specific contexts, especially when referring to their overall presence or in a more artistic or poetic way. For example, you might say a male actor is schön if you are referring to his overall captivating stage presence.
Ansehnlich (Presentable/Decent-looking)
Ansehnlich means “presentable” or “decent-looking.” It suggests a level of attractiveness that is pleasing or acceptable. It implies someone looks good enough to be presented in public. It’s a more moderate term, not as strong as attraktiv or gutaussehend.
Stark (Strong)
While not a direct translation, *stark* meaning “strong” can sometimes imply handsomeness in a way that emphasizes physical strength and masculinity. This is more common in describing someone’s physique or overall presence.
Männlich (Manly)
Männlich means “manly” or “masculine.” It refers to qualities associated with being a man, such as strength, ruggedness, and confidence. While not a direct synonym for “handsome,” it can contribute to the overall perception of attractiveness.
Fesch (Smart/Stylish – Austrian/Southern German)
Fesch is a regional term, primarily used in Austria and Southern Germany. It means “smart,” “stylish,” or “well-dressed.” It implies that someone looks good because of their clothing and overall style. This is often used in the context of traditional clothing.
Examples: Using “Handsome” in German Sentences
Let’s explore how to use these words in context with various examples:
Examples with Attraktiv
The following table provides examples of how to use the word “attraktiv” (attractive) in German sentences. Notice the adjective agreement with the noun it describes.
| German Sentence | English Translation |
|---|---|
| Er ist ein sehr attraktiver Mann. | He is a very attractive man. |
| Sie findet ihn attraktiv. | She finds him attractive. |
| Das Model ist sehr attraktiv. | The model is very attractive. |
| Ich finde ihn überhaupt nicht attraktiv. | I don’t find him attractive at all. |
| Ist er attraktiv? | Is he attractive? |
| Diese Stadt ist sehr attraktiv für Touristen. | This city is very attractive for tourists. |
| Sie ist eine attraktive Frau. | She is an attractive woman. |
| Er hat eine attraktive Persönlichkeit. | He has an attractive personality. |
| Die attraktive Lage des Hotels zieht viele Gäste an. | The attractive location of the hotel attracts many guests. |
| Die attraktiven Angebote locken viele Kunden an. | The attractive offers attract many customers. |
| Er ist ein attraktiver junger Mann. | He is an attractive young man. |
| Sie ist eine attraktive ältere Dame. | She is an attractive older lady. |
| Er fand sie sofort attraktiv. | He found her attractive immediately. |
| Sie wirkte sehr attraktiv in dem roten Kleid. | She looked very attractive in the red dress. |
| Die attraktive Landschaft zog viele Wanderer an. | The attractive landscape attracted many hikers. |
| Er ist ein attraktiver Schauspieler. | He is an attractive actor. |
| Sie ist eine attraktive Sängerin. | She is an attractive singer. |
| Er hat ein attraktives Lächeln. | He has an attractive smile. |
| Sie hat eine attraktive Ausstrahlung. | She has an attractive aura. |
| Das attraktive Design des Autos gefällt mir sehr. | I really like the attractive design of the car. |
Examples with Gutaussehend
The following table provides examples of how to use the word “gutaussehend” (good-looking) in German sentences. Note that “gutaussehend” is an adjective and must agree with the noun it modifies.
| German Sentence | English Translation |
|---|---|
| Er ist sehr gutaussehend. | He is very good-looking. |
| Sie findet ihn gutaussehend. | She finds him good-looking. |
| Mein Bruder ist gutaussehend. | My brother is good-looking. |
| Ist dein neuer Freund gutaussehend? | Is your new boyfriend good-looking? |
| Viele Leute denken, dass er gutaussehend ist. | Many people think he is good-looking. |
| Er ist ein gutaussehender junger Mann. | He is a good-looking young man. |
| Sie ist eine gutaussehende Frau. | She is a good-looking woman. |
| Er war ein gutaussehender Soldat. | He was a good-looking soldier. |
| Der gutaussehende Schauspieler wurde von allen bewundert. | The good-looking actor was admired by everyone. |
| Sie traf einen gutaussehenden Fremden. | She met a good-looking stranger. |
| Er ist nicht nur intelligent, sondern auch gutaussehend. | He is not only intelligent but also good-looking. |
| Sie suchte einen gutaussehenden Partner. | She was looking for a good-looking partner. |
| Er ist ein gutaussehender Mann mittleren Alters. | He is a good-looking middle-aged man. |
| Sie beschrieb ihn als gutaussehend und charmant. | She described him as good-looking and charming. |
| Der gutaussehende Prinz verzauberte alle. | The good-looking prince enchanted everyone. |
| Er ist ein gutaussehender Geschäftsmann. | He is a good-looking businessman. |
| Sie ist eine gutaussehende Lehrerin. | She is a good-looking teacher. |
| Er hat einen gutaussehenden Freund. | He has a good-looking friend. |
| Sie hat einen gutaussehenden Kollegen. | She has a good-looking colleague. |
| Der gutaussehende Sänger begeisterte das Publikum. | The good-looking singer thrilled the audience. |
Examples with Hübsch
The following table provides examples of how to use the word “hübsch” (pretty/nice-looking) in German sentences. Remember that “hübsch” carries a softer connotation and is more frequently used for women and children.
| German Sentence | English Translation |
|---|---|
| Sie ist sehr hübsch. | She is very pretty. |
| Das Baby ist so hübsch! | The baby is so pretty! |
| Er findet sie hübsch. | He finds her pretty. |
| Ein hübsches Mädchen. | A pretty girl. |
| Das Kleid ist sehr hübsch. | The dress is very pretty. |
| Sie ist ein hübsches junges Mädchen. | She is a pretty young girl. |
| Er fand sie auf eine hübsche Art und Weise interessant. | He found her interesting in a pretty way. |
| Das hübsche Haus steht zum Verkauf. | The pretty house is for sale. |
| Sie trug ein hübsches Kleid. | She wore a pretty dress. |
| Er schenkte ihr einen hübschen Blumenstrauß. | He gave her a pretty bouquet of flowers. |
| Sie hat ein hübsches Lächeln. | She has a pretty smile. |
| Er wohnt in einem hübschen kleinen Dorf. | He lives in a pretty little village. |
| Sie hat hübsche blaue Augen. | She has pretty blue eyes. |
| Das hübsche Café lädt zum Verweilen ein. | The pretty café invites you to linger. |
| Sie hat ein hübsches Gesicht. | She has a pretty face. |
| Er fand die Idee hübsch und naiv. | He found the idea pretty and naive. |
| Sie hat eine hübsche Stimme. | She has a pretty voice. |
| Er malte ein hübsches Bild. | He painted a pretty picture. |
| Das hübsche Geschenk hat ihr sehr gefallen. | She really liked the pretty gift. |
| Sie hat ein hübsches Armband bekommen. | She received a pretty bracelet. |
Examples with Schön
The following table provides examples of how to use the word “schön” (beautiful) in German sentences. “Schön” is more commonly used for women, but can describe men in specific contexts.
| German Sentence | English Translation |
|---|---|
| Sie ist schön. | She is beautiful. |
| Er ist ein schöner Mann. (rare, poetic) | He is a beautiful man. (rare, poetic) |
| Was für ein schöner Tag! | What a beautiful day! |
| Das ist ein schönes Auto. | That is a beautiful car. |
| Sie hat eine schöne Stimme. | She has a beautiful voice. |
| Sie ist eine schöne junge Frau. | She is a beautiful young woman. |
| Er hat eine schöne Art zu sprechen. | He has a beautiful way of speaking. |
| Das schöne Wetter hat uns nach draußen gelockt. | The beautiful weather lured us outside. |
| Sie trug ein schönes Kleid. | She wore a beautiful dress. |
| Er schenkte ihr eine schöne Halskette. | He gave her a beautiful necklace. |
| Sie hat schöne grüne Augen. | She has beautiful green eyes. |
| Er wohnt in einem schönen alten Haus. | He lives in a beautiful old house. |
| Sie hat ein schönes Lächeln. | She has a beautiful smile. |
| Das schöne Gemälde hängt im Museum. | The beautiful painting hangs in the museum. |
| Sie hat ein schönes Gesicht. | She has a beautiful face. |
| Er fand die Idee schön und romantisch. | He found the idea beautiful and romantic. |
| Sie hat eine schöne Seele. | She has a beautiful soul. |
| Er spielte ein schönes Lied auf dem Klavier. | He played a beautiful song on the piano. |
| Das schöne Geschenk hat ihr sehr gefallen. | She really liked the beautiful gift. |
| Sie hat einen schönen Ring bekommen. | She received a beautiful ring. |
Examples with Ansehnlich
The following table provides examples of how to use the word “ansehnlich” (presentable/decent-looking) in German sentences. “Ansehnlich” implies a level of attractiveness that is pleasing or acceptable.
| German Sentence | English Translation |
|---|---|
| Er ist ein ansehnlicher Mann. | He is a presentable man. |
| Das Ergebnis ist ansehnlich. | The result is decent-looking. |
| Sie hat ein ansehnliches Haus. | She has a presentable house. |
| Die Sammlung ist ansehnlich. | The collection is decent-looking. |
| Er hat ein ansehnliches Vermögen. | He has a considerable fortune. |
| Er ist ein ansehnlicher älterer Herr. | He is a presentable older gentleman. |
| Sie hat eine ansehnliche Karriere gemacht. | She has had a presentable career. |
| Das ansehnliche Gebäude steht im Stadtzentrum. | The presentable building is located in the city center. |
| Sie trug ein ansehnliches Kleid. | She wore a presentable dress. |
| Er schenkte ihr ein ansehnliches Schmuckstück. | He gave her a presentable piece of jewelry. |
| Sie hat ein ansehnliches Einkommen. | She has a decent income. |
| Er bewohnt ein ansehnliches Anwesen. | He lives in a presentable estate. |
| Sie hat eine ansehnliche Anzahl von Büchern. | She has a decent number of books. |
| Das ansehnliche Denkmal erinnert an die Geschichte. | The presentable monument commemorates history. |
| Sie hat ein ansehnliches Bankkonto. | She has a decent bank account. |
| Er ist ein ansehnlicher Geschäftspartner. | He is a presentable business partner. |
| Sie hat eine ansehnliche Sammlung von Kunstwerken. | She has a decent collection of artworks. |
| Er spendete eine ansehnliche Summe für wohltätige Zwecke. | He donated a considerable sum for charitable purposes. |
| Das ansehnliche Gehalt ermöglicht ihr ein gutes Leben. | The decent salary allows her to live a good life. |
| Sie hat ein ansehnliches Portfolio an Projekten. | She has a decent portfolio of projects. |
Examples with Stark
The following table provides examples of how to use the word “stark” (strong) in German sentences to imply handsomeness through physical strength and masculinity.
| German Sentence | English Translation |
|---|---|
| Er ist ein starker Mann. | He is a strong man. |
| Sie findet ihn stark und attraktiv. | She finds him strong and attractive. |
| Seine starken Arme beeindrucken sie. | His strong arms impress her. |
| Er hat einen starken Körperbau. | He has a strong physique. |
| Der starke Held rettete die Stadt. | The strong hero saved the city. |
| Er ist ein starker, junger Mann. | He is a strong, young man. |
| Sie bewundert seine starke Willenskraft. | She admires his strong willpower. |
| Der starke Baum widerstand dem Sturm. | The strong tree withstood the storm. |
| Sie suchte nach einem starken Partner. | She was looking for a strong partner. |
| Er hat eine starke Ausstrahlung. | He has a strong presence. |
| Er ist nicht nur stark, sondern auch intelligent. | He is not only strong but also intelligent. |
| Sie fühlte sich sicher in seinen starken Armen. | She felt safe in his strong arms. |
| Er hat einen starken Charakter. | He has a strong character. |
| Der starke Wind wehte durch die Straßen. | The strong wind blew through the streets. |
| Sie bewundert seine starke Persönlichkeit. | She admires his strong personality. |
| Er ist ein starker Anführer. | He is a strong leader. |
| Sie hat eine starke Stimme. | She has a strong voice. |
| Er hat eine starke Meinung. | He has a strong opinion. |
| Das starke Fundament trägt das Haus. | The strong foundation supports the house. |
| Sie hat eine starke Verbindung zu ihrer Familie. | She has a strong connection to her family. |
Examples with Männlich
The following table provides examples of how to use the word “männlich” (manly) in German sentences, which can contribute to the overall perception of attractiveness.
| German Sentence | English Translation |
|---|---|
| Er ist sehr männlich. | He is very manly. |
| Sie mag männliche Männer. | She likes manly men. |
| Sein männliches Auftreten beeindruckt sie. | His manly demeanor impresses her. |
| Er hat ein sehr männliches Aussehen. | He has a very manly appearance. |
| Der männliche Held rettete die Prinzessin. | The manly hero saved the princess. |
| Er ist ein männlicher junger Mann. | He is a manly young man. |
| Sie bewundert seine männliche Stärke. | She admires his manly strength. |
| Der männliche Duft gefällt ihr sehr. | She really likes the manly scent. |
| Sie suchte nach einem männlichen Partner. | She was looking for a manly partner. |
| Er hat eine männliche Stimme. | He has a manly voice. |
| Er ist nicht nur intelligent, sondern auch männlich. | He is not only intelligent but also manly. |
| Sie fühlte sich sicher mit seinem männlichen Schutz. | She felt safe with his manly protection. |
| Er hat einen männlichen Charme. | He has a manly charm. |
| Der männliche Schauspieler spielte die Hauptrolle. | The manly actor played the main role. |
| Sie bewundert seine männliche Ausstrahlung. | She admires his manly presence. |
| Er ist ein männlicher Anführer. | He is a manly leader. |
| Sie hat eine männliche Kollegin. | She has a manly colleague. |
| Er hat einen männlichen Stil. | He has a manly style. |
| Das männliche Vorbild inspirierte viele. | The manly role model inspired many. |
| Sie hat eine männliche Freundin. | She has a manly friend. |
Examples with Fesch
The following table provides examples of how to use the word “fesch” (smart/stylish) in German sentences, primarily in Austrian and Southern German contexts.
| German Sentence | English Translation |
|---|---|
| Er ist sehr fesch. (Austrian/Southern German) | He is very stylish. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Sie findet ihn fesch in seiner Tracht. (Austrian/Southern German) | She finds him stylish in his traditional clothing. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Du siehst fesch aus! (Austrian/Southern German) | You look stylish! (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Ein fescher Bursche. (Austrian/Southern German) | A stylish young man. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Die fesche Kleidung steht ihm gut. (Austrian/Southern German) | The stylish clothing suits him well. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Er ist ein fescher junger Mann. (Austrian/Southern German) | He is a stylish young man. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Sie bewundert seinen feschen Stil. (Austrian/Southern German) | She admires his stylish style. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Der fesche Hut passt perfekt zu seinem Outfit. (Austrian/Southern German) | The stylish hat matches his outfit perfectly. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Sie suchte nach einem feschen Partner für den Tanz. (Austrian/Southern German) | She was looking for a stylish partner for the dance. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Er hat eine fesche Art, sich zu kleiden. (Austrian/Southern German) | He has a stylish way of dressing. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Er ist nicht nur intelligent, sondern auch fesch. (Austrian/Southern German) | He is not only intelligent but also stylish. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Sie fühlte sich wohl mit seinem feschen Geschmack. (Austrian/Southern German) | She felt comfortable with his stylish taste. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Er hat einen feschen Charme. (Austrian/Southern German) | He has a stylish charm. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Der fesche Schauspieler spielte die Hauptrolle. (Austrian/Southern German) | The stylish actor played the main role. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Sie bewundert seine fesche Ausstrahlung. (Austrian/Southern German) | She admires his stylish presence. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Er ist ein fescher Anführer. (Austrian/Southern German) | He is a stylish leader. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Sie hat einen feschen Kollegen. (Austrian/Southern German) | She has a stylish colleague. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Er hat einen feschen Look. (Austrian/Southern German) | He has a stylish look. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Das fesche Vorbild inspirierte viele. (Austrian/Southern German) | The stylish role model inspired many. (Austrian/Southern German) |
| Sie hat einen feschen Freund. (Austrian/Southern German) | She has a stylish friend. (Austrian/Southern German) |
Usage Rules and Grammatical Considerations
When using these words in German, it’s important to consider the grammatical rules that govern their usage.
Adjective Agreement
In German, adjectives must agree in gender, number, and case with the noun they modify. This means that the ending of the adjective will change depending on the noun.
For