Inklingo

How to Say "good-looking" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “good-looking” is “atractiva” — use 'atractiva' to describe someone or something with general appeal or charm, focusing on their overall pleasant appearance and charisma..

English → Spanish

atractiva

ah-trahk-TEE-vah/a.tɾakˈti.βa/

adjectiveA1general
Use 'atractiva' to describe someone or something with general appeal or charm, focusing on their overall pleasant appearance and charisma.
A simple storybook illustration depicting a smiling young woman with bright, pleasant features and a confident posture.

Examples

La nueva profesora es muy atractiva y carismática.

The new teacher is very attractive and charismatic.

Esa oferta de trabajo suena muy atractiva para mí.

That job offer sounds very appealing to me.

Compramos la casa porque la zona era muy atractiva para familias.

We bought the house because the area was very appealing for families.

Adjective Agreement

Since 'atractiva' ends in -a, it is the feminine form. You must use it only when describing a feminine person or a feminine noun (like 'la casa' or 'la idea').

Mixing Genders

Mistake: “La ciudad es atractivo.”

Correction: La ciudad es atractiva. (The word 'ciudad' is feminine, so the adjective must also be feminine.)

apuesto

/a-PWES-to//aˈpwesto/

adjectiveB1general
Use 'apuesto' specifically for men to describe them as handsome or good-looking in a more traditional, striking way.
A portrait of a smiling, well-dressed young man looking directly forward.

Examples

El protagonista de la película es un hombre muy apuesto.

The main character of the movie is a very handsome man.

Mi abuelo siempre fue un señor muy apuesto y elegante.

My grandfather was always a very dapper and elegant gentleman.

Con ese traje nuevo, te ves muy apuesto.

With that new suit, you look very handsome.

Making Adjectives Agree

In Spanish, describing words (adjectives) must match the person or thing they describe. 'Apuesto' is used for men ('un hombre apuesto'). For women, it changes to 'apuesta' ('una mujer apuesta').

Gender Mix-up

Mistake: “La actriz es muy apuesto.”

Correction: La actriz es muy apuesta. Remember to change the ending from -o to -a when describing someone or something female.

Confusing 'apuesto' and 'atractiva'

Learners often use 'atractiva' too broadly. Remember that 'apuesto' is almost exclusively used for men and implies a strong sense of handsomeness. 'Atractiva' is more general and can apply to anyone or anything with pleasing looks or charm.

Related Translations

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