synonyms beautiful, pretty, lovely, and handsome describe people and things that are pleasing to look at, hear, etc. beautiful applies to things that give the greatest pleasure and cause people to feel strong emotions.
▪ beautiful sunsets ▪ a beautiful poem When used of a person, it usually describes a woman, girl, or small child. ▪ She's the most beautiful woman I've ever met. ▪ Their son was a beautiful baby. pretty often applies to small things that are attractive in a delicate way. ▪ a pretty little dress with pink ribbons ▪ He paints pretty pictures and sells them on the street. When used of a person, it almost always describes a woman or girl. ▪ their pretty daughter ▪ She looked very pretty in her new dress. lovely applies to things that make people feel strong emotions by being very graceful or delicate. ▪ a lovely melody When used to describe a person's appearance, it almost always refers to a woman or girl. ▪ They have two lovely daughters. It can also describe a person's character, and in this use it refers to both women and men. ▪ My uncle is a lovely man. [=a very good man] handsome applies to things that are attractive because they have a balanced design or shape. ▪ a handsome house surrounded by gardens ▪ She wore a handsome gray suit to the office. When used to describe a person, it usually refers to a man or boy. ▪ their handsome son ▪ a very handsome actor ▪ He has a strong, handsome face. A woman who is described as handsome is attractive but usually not in a very delicate or feminine way.