Handsome is as handsome does: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Handsome is as handsome does” mean?

"Handsome is as handsome does" means that a person's actions and behavior are more important than their appearance.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He may not be conventionally attractive, but handsome is as handsome does - he's always there to help others.

Example

She may not have the most attractive features, but handsome is as handsome does - she's always kind and considerate.

Example

Don't judge a book by its cover - handsome is as handsome does

Is “Handsome is as handsome does” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Handsome is as handsome does” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Handsome is as handsome does” effectively in context?

You can use "Handsome is as handsome does" to emphasize the importance of a person's actions and behavior over their physical appearance. It suggests that true beauty comes from within and is reflected in how someone behaves. For example, if someone is judging another person based on their looks, you might say, 'Remember, "handsome is as handsome does". It's what's on the inside that counts.'

• 1. Friendship

  She may not be conventionally attractive, but handsome is as handsome does - she's always there to help others.

• 2. Kindness

  He may not have the most attractive features, but handsome is as handsome does - he's always kind and considerate.

• 3. Judgment

  Don't judge a book by its cover - handsome is as handsome does.

Similar phrases to “Handsome is as handsome does”:

Actions speak louder than words

What someone does is more important than what they say.

Example

He promised to help, but his actions speak louder than words.

Beauty is only skin deep

A person's true worth is not determined by their physical appearance.

Example

She may not be conventionally beautiful, but beauty is only skin deep.

The proof of the pudding is in the eating

The true value or quality of something can only be judged by experiencing or testing it.

Example

He claims to be an expert, but the proof of the pudding is in the eating.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Handsome is as handsome does” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Handsome is as handsome does" is unknown.

Is “Handsome is as handsome does” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Handsome is as handsome does" is a well-known proverb in everyday conversation. It is often used to remind people that appearances can be deceiving and that true beauty lies in a person's actions and character.

What tone does “Handsome is as handsome does” have?

"Handsome is as handsome does" conveys a tone of wisdom and insight. It encourages people to look beyond superficial appearances and focus on the qualities that truly matter.

Can “Handsome is as handsome does” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Handsome is as handsome does" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a timeless proverb that carries a universal message. You can use it in various contexts, such as personal conversations, speeches, or even in writing.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She may not be conventionally attractive, but "handsome is as handsome does" - she's always there to help others.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'Remember, "handsome is as handsome does".' to imply the importance of actions over appearances.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• actions matter more than looks
• character is more important than appearance
• beauty is as beauty does
• it's what's inside that counts

Antonyms

• looks are everything
• appearance is all that matters
• beauty is skin deep