beauty contest
Definition
Noun: A "beauty contest" is a competition in which participants, typically women, are judged on their physical attractiveness, often also including poise, personality, and talent.
Usage Examples
- (A competition based on physical appearance.)
- (A type of pageant judged on attractiveness.)
Advanced Usage
- "beauty contest" in business or politics: A metaphorical use meaning a competition where candidates or proposals are evaluated primarily on superficial qualities rather than substantive merit.
- The selection process for the new CEO turned into a beauty contest, focusing on charisma over experience. (A competition based on appearance or style rather than substance.)
Variants and Related Words
- Beauty pageant (n): a formal public contest for women that emphasizes physical beauty, often with categories like evening gown, swimsuit, and talent.
- The Miss World competition is a famous international beauty pageant. (A large-scale beauty contest with multiple judging rounds.)
Synonyms
- Pageant: a public entertainment or contest, often involving beauty and talent.
- Competition: a contest where individuals or groups strive to win based on specific criteria.
Related Idioms
- "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder": A saying that beauty is subjective and varies from person to person.
- Some people love beauty contests, while others find them shallow — beauty is in the eye of the beholder. (Perception of beauty differs.)
Cultural Note
Beauty contests have evolved over time; modern versions often include categories like "intelligence" and "community service" to address criticisms. The term "beauty contest" can sometimes carry a negative connotation due to its focus on appearance.