Definition of beautifulnext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective beautiful differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of beautiful are comely, fair, handsome, lovely, and pretty. While all these words mean "exciting sensuous or aesthetic pleasure," beautiful applies to whatever excites the keenest of pleasure to the senses and stirs emotion through the senses.

beautiful mountain scenery

How are the words comely and handsome related as synonyms of beautiful?

Comely is like handsome in suggesting what is coolly approved rather than emotionally responded to.

the comely grace of a dancer

When can fair be used instead of beautiful?

The words fair and beautiful are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, fair suggests beauty because of purity, flawlessness, or freshness.

fair of face

When could handsome be used to replace beautiful?

While in some cases nearly identical to beautiful, handsome suggests aesthetic pleasure due to proportion, symmetry, or elegance.

a handsome Georgian mansion

How do lovely and beautiful relate to one another?

Lovely is close to beautiful but applies to a narrower range of emotional excitation in suggesting the graceful, delicate, or exquisite.

a lovely melody

In what contexts can pretty take the place of beautiful?

The words pretty and beautiful can be used in similar contexts, but pretty often applies to superficial or insubstantial attractiveness.

a painter of conventionally pretty scenes

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of beautiful Tunisia's Yasmine Hammamet Beach, which sits on the country's northern coast along the Mediterranean Sea, was ranked the most beautiful beach in the world, according to a study from European travel company TUI that was shared with Travel + Leisure. Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 5 July 2026 Such yards focused on beautiful pools and fire features, for instance. Kate Bradshaw, Mercury News, 5 July 2026 Pretty is subjective, but many people consider Lake Tahoe to be one of the state's most beautiful areas. Eve Chen, USA Today, 5 July 2026 Patrons who take advantage of this beautiful 45-55 minute tour will get to see all kinds of formations, created by its speleothem growth (speleothem is the catch-all term for mineral growths like stalactites, columns, and stalagmites). Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for beautiful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for beautiful
Adjective
  • The acoustics are much changed, but audiences probably will notice the improved seating and lovely lighting even more.
    Hannah Edgar, Chicago Tribune, 12 July 2026
  • That’s a lovely, melancholy sentiment Star City uses to deliver a season-best episode full of character moments that feel properly FAM.
    Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 10 July 2026
Adjective
  • There was something wonderful about the energy of the space—sprinkled with students diligently studying for final exams.
    Dana Kravis, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2026
  • The airline’s business class is well worth the splurge, thanks to the delicious food and beverage offerings, comfortable seats, innovative programs, and wonderful service on board.
    Elizabeth Rhodes, Travel + Leisure, 14 July 2026
Adjective
  • That crazy gorgeous Bad Man Blue, and something Harley has called Inferno Gray with Wet Slide Graphics.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 6 July 2026
  • Ahead, find all the gorgeous pedicure ideas to add to your summer mood board.
    Rebecca Norris, InStyle, 5 July 2026
Adjective
  • Rocket is known for its excellent customer service and easy-to-use website and mobile app.
    Kelsey Neubauer, CNBC, 13 July 2026
  • Bagworm is excellent and I am thrilled Oscilloscope will be bringing this cinematic fever dream to a theater near you.
    Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 13 July 2026
Adjective
  • Lovevook Travel Backpack with Packing Cubes This weekender backpack, a cute yet functional option with gold hardware, a drink sleeve with adjustable straps, and a hidden pocket for valuables.
    Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 11 July 2026
  • Oprah and podiatrists agree that the brand’s actually-cute kicks offer ample cushioning and comfort for days spent on your feet.
    Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 10 July 2026
Adjective
  • As a matter of fact, along this awesome stretch, a sober man would walk and lead a horse — or, better yet, not take a horse at all.
    Frank C. Hibben, Outdoor Life, 15 July 2026
  • But this was an awesome opportunity to do something fun, cool and different.
    Ronnie Li, USA Today, 14 July 2026
Adjective
  • Neill is at his most handsome, charming heartthrob best here, and the film received an Oscar nod for its period costume design.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 15 July 2026
  • His features are handsome and well balanced but not unusually high scoring by looksmaxxing standards.
    Seth Abramovitch, HollywoodReporter, 15 July 2026
Adjective
  • Uniquely, the resort has a no-menu concept and a fabulous team of chefs who love a culinary challenge.
    Katie Lockhart, Robb Report, 16 July 2026
  • On the savory front PJ’s offers gluten-free buns for its fabulous lobster rolls and a truly delicious linguiça roll for those who prefer meat.
    Luke Pyenson, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Beautiful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/beautiful. Accessed 17 Jul. 2026.

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