Prettier: meaning, definitions and examples

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prettier

 

[ˈprɪtiər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

appearance, comparative

The word 'prettier' is a comparative form of the adjective 'pretty', which means attractive in a delicate way without being truly beautiful. It is often used to describe someone or something that has a pleasing appearance or charm that is engaging. 'Prettier' can be used in various contexts, including descriptions of people, objects, or scenes that evoke a sense of beauty that is sweet rather than strong.

Synonyms

fairer, more appealing, more attractive, more charming.

Examples of usage

  • She looked prettier than ever in that dress.
  • This garden is prettier than the one next door.
  • The sunset tonight is even prettier than usual.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word derives from the Middle English word 'pretty,' which meant 'crafty' or 'ingenious.'
  • Originally, 'pretty' was used to describe something that was sly or cunning, showing how meanings can change over time.

Pop Culture

  • In pop culture, phrases like 'girls just want to have fun' often emphasize beauty as a form of self-expression.
  • Many songs focus on themes of beauty, with 'prettier' often used to compare appearances in the context of love and relationships.

Psychology

  • Studies show that people often associate beauty with positive traits, such as kindness and intelligence, a phenomenon known as the 'halo effect.'
  • The perception of beauty is influenced by cultural standards, which can vary widely across different societies.

Literature

  • In literature, characters described as 'prettier' often symbolize ideals of virtue and goodness, reflecting societal values of their time.
  • Various authors have played with definitions of beauty, questioning what it truly means to be 'prettier' in their narratives.

Art

  • Visual art often seeks to evoke feelings of beauty; artists may focus on elements that make a subject appear 'prettier' to convey emotion.
  • The concept of beauty in art is subjective; what one person finds 'prettier' may differ greatly from another's opinion.

Translations

Translations of the word "prettier" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mais bonito

🇮🇳 सुंदर

🇩🇪 schöner

🇮🇩 lebih cantik

🇺🇦 гарніший

🇵🇱 ładniejszy

🇯🇵 より美しい

🇫🇷 plus beau

🇪🇸 más bonito

🇹🇷 daha güzel

🇰🇷 더 아름다운

🇸🇦 أجمل

🇨🇿 hezčí

🇸🇰 krajší

🇨🇳 更美

🇸🇮 lepši

🇮🇸 fallegri

🇰🇿 көркем

🇬🇪 მშვენიერი

🇦🇿 gözəl

🇲🇽 más bonito

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,599, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.