50+ Words to Call Guys Besides “Cute”: Best Pet Names & Compliments

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The most swoon-worthy terms of endearment for your special guy

Co-authored by Bertha Isabel Crombet, PhD Reviewed by John Keegan

Last Updated: October 22, 2025 Fact Checked

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Alternatives for “Cute”

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Using “Cute” Synonyms in Compliments

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Do guys like “cute”?

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Alternatives for “Hot”

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Alternatives for “Handsome”

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FAQs

Whether you’re in the early stages of having a crush on a guy or you’re already dating him, you probably want to make him feel as special as possible, and the term “cute” might not cut it. So, what else can you call your new man? What other adjectives can you use to describe his hunkiness, sex appeal, and charm? If you want to get creative with your compliments, keep reading for an in-depth guide to male flattery.

What can you call a guy besides “cute”?

Adorable
Charming
Dreamy
Eye-catching
Good-looking
Hunky
Studly

Section 1 of 6:

What to Call a Guy Instead of “Cute”

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Use these adorable adjectives to make your guy feel extra special. While “cute” is certainly a compliment, you might want to get a bit more creative and specific when it comes to describing your significant other. Whether you want to address his boyish good looks, his good-natured charm, or his sweet sense of humor, try using any of the following terms to bring a smile to your beau’s face:^{[1]
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- Adorable
- Angel or angelic
- Appealing
- Charming
- Cutie pie
- Darling
- Delightful
- Dear
- Dreamy
- Heavenly
- Looker
- Precious
- Sweetie pie

Section 2 of 6:

How to Compliment a Guy Using Synonyms for “Cute”

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Call him a more unique word than “cute” via text or online to stand out. If a cutie has slid into your Instagram DMs—or you’ve slid into his—convey your interest by complimenting him with alternative words instead of “cute.” While “cute” is sure to flatter him, another word can let him know that he’s super special, lovable, and squishable in your eyes. For example, call him “adorable” if you find him as cuddly as a teddy bear, “charming” if he’s sweet and clever, and “dreamy” if you get lost in his eyes:^{[2]
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- “Aw, you’re so precious. In a non-gollum way lol.”
- “I saw the pics from your beach trip this weekend— aren’t you a sight for sore eyes!”
- “Chatting with you is honestly delightful. You crack me up constantly.”
- “You know you’re a looker— which is why I look. And I like what I see!”
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Give him a cute nickname in place of saying he’s “cute.” Compliments don’t just have to come in the form of an adjective; they can be nouns, too! While “babe” and “honey” are perfectly acceptable, bring an extra-wide grin to your man’s face by calling them something besides their government name. Terms of endearment like “cutie pie,” “sweetie pie,” and “darling” are all quirky classics that your guy would love to hear, especially when coupled with gratitude for something nice he did or in a private moment of intimacy. Here are some other ideas of nicknames to call him:^{[3]
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- “Come here and kiss me, mister man!”
- “You’re my little boo bear, and I just want to snuggle you.”
- “Hey, hunk-a-lunk! Where have you been?
- “What should I make us for dinner, dumpling?”
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Give a thoughtful and sincere compliment in place of a generic “cute.” It’s easy to call someone “cute” or “sexy,” but it takes a bit more effort to compliment a specific aspect of your guy’s appearance, personality, or small quirks. Thoughtful and sincere compliments not only show that you really pay attention to who he is, but they also allow you to be vulnerable in conveying the sincerity of your feelings. If you love your S.O.’s big, googly green eyes, you can say something like, “You have apple martini eyes— they’re my favorite!” If the sound of his laughter is truly music to your ears, feel free to tell him exactly that! The key is to be genuine and creative without being over the top:^{[4]
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- “Your teeth are so white, you have such a big, beautiful smile!”
- “I love how your big hands keep mine warm.”
- “Thanks for going on that hike with me— you’re so spontaneous and adventurous!”
- “You had a great sense of style. Hope you’re ready for me to steal your clothes!”

Section 3 of 6:

Do guys like being called cute?

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In general, guys do like being called cute. Being called “cute” can make a guy feel more confident, loved, and secure in their relationship. Similar to “adorable” and “sweet,” “cute” is a wholesome and affectionate term of endearment for someone. Due to this, however, some guys might not appreciate being called “cute” if they find it emasculating or childish. “Cute” can also be an adjective that puts guys in the “friend zone,” so it may not be every man’s preference. If he tells you he doesn’t like it, opt for more manly compliments, like “handsome” or “hunk.”

Section 4 of 6:

What to Call a Guy Instead of “Hot”

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Pepper these spicy compliments when chatting with your man. If there’s something your boyfriend does that makes you weak in the knees, like wearing a backwards hat or opening your car door, you might be wondering how to communicate your intense attraction. “Hot” might not be enough, because your guy is certainly a cut above the rest. Here are some good ideas to get you started:^{[5]
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- Beefcake
- Dreamboat
- Dish
- Eye candy
- Fine
- Foxy
- Head-turner
- Hot stuff
- Hunk
- Knockout
- Lady-killer
- Pretty boy
- Sexy
- Stud muffin
- Stunner

Section 5 of 6:

What to Call a Guy Instead of “Handsome”

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Highlight your crush’s classic features with these unique words. You probably find your man devastatingly handsome, as you should. You might think him an easy choice for the next James Bond or the live-action Disney prince despite having zero acting experience. That’s right— his face card never declines and requires no formal training in order to impress, and you might be wondering how you can express that in mere words. Here are some synonyms for “handsome” you can feel free to use:^{[6]
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- Alluring
- Arresting
- Attractive
- Beautiful
- Comely
- Dapper
- Dazzling
- Debonair
- Desirable
- Drop dead gorgeous
- Elegant
- Eye-catching
- Flawless
- Good-looking
- Luscious
- Perfect 10
- Seductive
- Sharp
- Showstopper
- Smart
- Smokeshow
- A snack
- Striking
- Studly

Section 6 of 6:

Frequently Asked Questions: Complimenting Men

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Do guys like being called handsome? Yes, being called “handsome” is considered a compliment. Calling a guy “handsome” is a classic compliment that has stood the test of time. The word is linked to iconic movie stars from the golden age of Hollywood, like James Dean and Clark Gable, and generally describes a good-looking and strong man. Calling your S.O. “handsome” can boost his self-esteem, affirm his masculinity, and make him feel truly appreciated and admired by their partner.^{[7]
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Can you call a guy sweetheart? Yes, you call a guy “sweetheart,” although it might not be his preference. “Sweetheart” is often used to mean “loved one,” and it was originally meant in reference to a child. While the meaning has evolved over time, “sweetheart” still has a loving and wholesome connotation to it. Depending on your relationship with a guy and the context of the situation, calling him “sweetheart” can be a sweet of endearment.^{[8]
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- In certain contexts, “sweetheart” can be used condescendingly. If he prefers you don’t call him that at all, respect his wishes.
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Do guys like being called hot? Yes, being called “hot” describes your guy’s sex appeal and can improve his confidence. The term “hot” has spicier connotations than “handsome” or “cute,” as it is a more direct compliment about a man’s sexiness. While many men would probably enjoy the ego boost, you should consider your relationship with him and the context in which the compliment is being paid. Some men don’t want to be sexualized, and might prefer being called “cute” or “handsome” instead.^{[9]
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