What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dashing
Example
He looked dashing in his suit and tie. [dashing: adjective]
Example
She was dashing through the crowd to catch her flight. [dashing: verb]
Example
He had a dashing smile that won over everyone he met. [dashing: adjective]
handsome
Example
He was a handsome man with chiseled features. [handsome: adjective]
Example
The building had a handsome facade with intricate details. [handsome: adjective]
Example
He made a handsome profit from his business venture. [handsome: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Handsome is more commonly used than dashing in everyday language. Handsome is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while dashing is less common and often associated with a more old-fashioned or literary style of writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dashing and handsome?
Both dashing and handsome can be used in formal and informal contexts, but handsome is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.