One of the best terms of endearment or compliments you can use with a guy is cute. While some may think it's too soft, that isn't the case. Guys can be just as cute and adorable as girls.
Same thing with the word gorgeous, the definition of the word is, “beautiful; very attractive.” So if you find a man very attractive you can say that he is gorgeous.
Most guys like "cute" if it's sincere or they think you like them. Men enjoy compliments on their looks and personality as much as women, even if they don't show it. If a guy is trying hard to impress you, he'll be extra weak in the knees when you call him cute because he'll feel like he's winning you over.
Men like being complimented on their appearance, as well as their personality. Nicknames are a great way to express affection and familiarity. "Cutie" or Good-looking" are great nicknames when flirting, while names like "Babe" or "Honey" are better for committed relationships.
'Cutie' can be used for describing males and females. 'Cutie' is more appropriately used when describing younger individuals. A five year old boy or girl could be called a 'cutie'.
If we look at the root word adore then it is definitely a compliment. It goes hand and hand with sweetheart, cute, loveable. He should definitely take it as a compliment. I have to really like a man a lot to say that he is adorable.
When men compliment your physical appearance, they usually use words like “pretty” or “beautiful.” On the other hand, using “cute” is usually a more playful way of saying that. So when he calls you cute, this means that he really likes being around you.
Though cute can be used by any woman as a casual way of saying a man is generally attractive, a cute man is a nonthreateningly attractive man who doesn't quite look overtly masculine in an aggressively sexual or potent way. He smiles a lot and is accessible, and it's hard to imagine him making a move.
Keep the focus on them when you compliment your crush and it'll help prevent them from thinking that you might have feelings for them. Try saying, “You're such a great leader” or “Your dedication is so inspiring.” Or, you might say, "There's just something really cool about you."
